Metal analysis is an important process that allows us to check the composition of unknown metallic substances. Metals and their toxicology affect human, animal, and plant health, as well as the environment, which is why monitoring metals in circulation is so vital. We sometimes refer to metals of interest as “heavy metals” or “trace metals”.
Trace metals analysis allows the identification of low levels of metal in a sample. This is a critical part of the product journey in development, quality control, legal requirements, and regulation compliance. Determining trace levels of metals in samples can also bring any contaminants to attention, which provides data to improve process and chemical formulation.
The trace metals are usually defined and identified by density, atomic numbers, atomic weight, chemical properties, or toxicity. The metals of interest are usually:
- Arsenic
- Beryllium
- Barium
- Cadmium
- Chromium
- Copper
- Mercury
- Nickel
- Lead
- Selenium
- Vanadium
- Zinc
There are various challenges which are often experienced during trace metal analysis. A main one is the laboratory conditions, as analysis results can easily become skewed if samples/equipment become contaminated. An obvious fix is to clean thoroughly, but other sources, such as electrostatic charge, must be eliminated as this can attract air-borne sources.
Trace metal applications in various industries:
Food and agriculture
Metals occur naturally in soil, water, and the atmosphere, hence why they are found in food and some metallic presence is essential in our diets. However, too much trace metals in the body can be harmful over time.
Pharmaceutical
Not only can trace metals be harmful to the patient when ingested as a medicine, they can also start the degradation of the drug. Metal analysis serves as an essential part of the quality control procedure within the manufacturing process for medications, supplements, and in clinical trials.
Environmental
Metal analysis of the environment is a crucial part of the protection of our planet, along with the health of humans, animals, and plants. There are set limits for the maximum concentration amounts of trace metals in the air, aquatic ecosystems and the ocean, soil, and land, and drinking water.
Chemical
Lubricant analysis is key to identifying contamination and wear of metals. Analysis of trace metals produced via engines or other equipment, helps to find wear and deteriorating conditions.
To find out more about metal analysis or trace metal, please contact a member of the Delta team via info@delta-sci.com