Contaminant on Molded Part

Technique Used:  Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR)

The customer submitted samples of a molded plastic part with a white residue present in the crevices of the part. The purpose of the analysis was to identify the residue and it's source. The residue was analyzed using the microscope attachment to the FTIR. The spectrum obtained suggested the material was a surfactant. A sample of the surfactant used in the processing of these parts was obtained, analyzed and compared to the residue. The residue was due to the incomplete removal of the surfactant.