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Analysis of polymers for environmental regulations

Thermo Fisher Scientific
25 Mar 2024

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) and Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) regulations have set rules regarding the highest tolerable limit for certain metals (particularly Pb, Cd, Hg, Br and Cr). In this application note, Thermo Fisher Scientific addresses the environmental impact of plastic accumulation and the potential release of heavy metals during its destruction or recycling. The note highlights how WEEE/RoHS analysis can be performed using the Thermo Scientific ARL™ PERFORM’X series spectrometer. Its Protec-Ultra-Safe design, means that the instrument can completely protect the entire X-ray system. This feature is equipped with liquid cassettes recognition, insuring that no liquid cassette will be subjected to vacuum causing the sample to rupture in the system. The ARL PERFORM’X instrument is also designed with over exposure technology, which automatically ejects a liquid samples if the X-ray exposure time is too long.

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Sample PreparationSample preparation can improve the quality and speed of separation techniques. Products to assist sample preparation include filtration equipment, evaporators, membranes and sieves.Fluorescence SpectroscopyFluorometers and spectrofluorometers (also called fluorescence spectrometers) are used to measure the intensity and wavelength of fluorescent light emitted from a sample after excitation by illumination. Spectrofluorometers utilize monochromators to select the desired wavelengths, whereas filter fluorometers employ a set of filters. Spectrofluorometers for measuring steady-state fluorescence and lifetime fluorescence (or time-resolved fluorescence) are available, as well as fluorescence microscopes and microplate readers. Find the best fluorescence spectroscopy products in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.X-Ray Diffraction and SpectroscopyX-Ray diffraction & spectroscopy are used in material characterization to discern the structure and elemental composition of a sample. X-Ray diffractometers (XRD) are superior instruments in elucidating the dimensional atomic structure of crystalline materials, including powders, thin films and single crystals. For large unit cells or ordered macromolecules, consider small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). X-ray spectroscopic techniques include X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), both providing simple and accurate methods for determining the elemental composition of a material. Energy dispersive (EDXRF) and wavelength dispersive (WDXRF) XRF spectrometers are available, as well as handheld/portable devices. High-resolution, 3D microstructure characterization of materials can be achieved with X-ray microscopes combining sub-micron resolution imaging with 3D computed tomography. Find the best XRD and XRF spectrometers in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Environmental Monitoring and TestingEnvironmental monitoring and testing uses handheld portable analyzers, kits, spectrometers or chromatography systems for air, water, soil, food and other sample testing. Useful features of analyzers such as BOD and COD include portability, easy calibration, automation and sensitivity.  Environmental test kits for pH, water, moisture, etc, should be accurate, sensitive, reliable, fast and easy to use.FluorescenceThe emission of fluorescence occurs when a photon of energy is supplied to a fluorescent chemical compound by an external source, causing it to become excited. Fluorescence can be detected and measured for different purposes using microplate readers, fluorescence microscopes, fluorescence scanners, and flow cytometers.Polymeric MaterialsPolymeric materials are widely used in industries ranging from biomedical devices to packaging and electronics. Research into these materials focuses on their properties, including strength, flexibility, and degradation. Advances in polymer science have enabled the development of more sustainable and high-performance materials. Explore the best polymeric material products in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.PolymersPolymers are large molecules made up of many repeat units. Natural polymers such as DNA and proteins are essential to life, whereas synthetic polymers such as polystyrene and polyethylene are used widely due to their functionality. Typical techniques for analysis include GPC, SEC, DSC, FT-IR and NMR.Environmental AnalysisEnvironmental analysis describes a variety of tests that determine the effect of chemicals, processes and particulates such as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) have on the environment.

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Analysis of polymers for environmental regulations