BQCIS

Quantifying Ultra-Trace Elements with Laboratory Precision

Trace element analysis plays a vital role in verifying material quality, detecting impurities, and meeting environmental or pharmaceutical regulations. Even parts-per-million (ppm) or parts-per-billion (ppb) deviations can critically affect performance, safety, and compliance.

BQCIS laboratories employ cutting-edge analytical instruments such as Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption (GFAA), and Glow Discharge Mass Spectrometry (GDMS). These allow simultaneous multi-element detection with unrivaled sensitivity and reproducibility.

Each test method follows accredited procedures (ISO/IEC 17025, ASTM E1479, and EPA 200.8), ensuring defensible, traceable results across metals, polymers, environmental matrices, and electronic materials.

Key Activities in Trace Element Analysis

ICP-MS Quantification

Ultra-trace multi-element detection in complex matrices with ppb-level accuracy and dynamic range.

Atomic Absorption (AAS/GFAA)

Determines individual element concentrations with precision for metals such as Pb, Cd, Cr, and Ni.

XRF Cross-Validation

Provides complementary non-destructive analysis for solid metals, ceramics, and composite materials.

Environmental Sample Analysis

Quantifies trace contaminants in water, soil, and air following EPA and ISO environmental protocols.

Semiconductor Purity Testing

Determines trace metallic impurities in silicon wafers, coatings, and precision electronics.

Pharmaceutical Elemental Impurities

Performs USP <232> / ICH Q3D testing to confirm elemental impurity limits in drug substances.

Calibration & Reference Materials

Uses NIST-traceable standards to ensure reproducibility and data accuracy across analytical runs.

Comprehensive Reporting

Provides certified test reports with statistical evaluation and method traceability.

Method Development & Validation

Developing and validating custom analytical methods for unique matrices or ultra-low detection limits.

Key Benefits of Trace Element Analysis

Product Purity Validation

Product Purity Validation

Confirms compliance of materials and products with strict purity requirements for safety and performance.

Regulatory Compliance

Regulatory Compliance

Ensures conformity with RoHS, REACH, USP, and environmental emission thresholds.

Contaminant Control

Contaminant Control

Detects metallic residues or process-induced impurities that can compromise performance or yield.

Quality Certification

Quality Certification

Supports global supply chains with accredited analytical certificates for export and regulatory review.

Success Story

Trace Metal Detection in Food-Contact Packaging

The Challenge:

A packaging supplier required verification that metal traces in coated films complied with EU 10/2011 food-contact regulations.

Our Solution:

BQCIS conducted ICP-MS testing on 12 metallic elements including lead, mercury, and cadmium, supported by XRF screening for rapid batch control.

The Result:

All results were below detection thresholds, ensuring regulatory compliance and enabling certification for food packaging export to the EU.

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