Analyzing Volatile Compounds Released from Food Can Liners Food cans do much more than simply hold food. A thin polymer liner on the inside of each can acts as a protective barrier, helping prevent corrosion, preserve product quality, and extend shelf life. But what happens when these coatings are exposed to elevated temperatures? To explore […]
How FTIR Helps Prevent Aerospace Bonding Failures
In aerospace, bonding failures are more than an inconvenience — they’re a risk. Adhesives, sealants, and coatings are everywhere in aircraft and spacecraft systems, and when a bond fails, the root cause often traces back to chemistry at (or near) the surface. That’s where FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) comes in. FTIR isn’t always the […]
Identifying Metal Surface Stains with FTIR Analysis
Picture this: A manufacturer is preparing a large batch of aluminum sheets for shipment when a sharp-eyed inspector notices faint stains across the surface. The product looks fine at first glance, but in industries like aerospace, automotive, or food packaging, even a small stain can set off alarms. Is it harmless—or a sign of contamination […]
Material Insights Through Thermal Analysis: What TGA Testing Can Reveal
In the world of product development and manufacturing, knowing how materials behave under heat isn’t just helpful—it’s important. Whether you’re designing medical devices, packaging for perishable goods, or components for high-performance electronics, thermal stability can determine success or failure. That’s where Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) comes into play. At Innovatech Labs, we specialize in helping teams […]
The Fluoride Factor: Measuring Fluoride Levels in Water with Ion Chromatography
The Fluoride Factor: Measuring Fluoride Levels in Water with Ion Chromatography Fluoride in drinking water has been a subject of scientific interest, public health policy, and even political debate for decades. Known for its cavity-fighting properties, fluoride has been both celebrated and scrutinized, prompting researchers and citizens alike to take a closer look at how […]
Using SHS-GC/MS to Detect VOCs in Plastic Food Bags
Does My Sandwich Taste Funny? A Real Science Experiment Inspired by a 14-Year-Old’s Lunchbox Complaint So here’s what happened. Our General Manager was doing his early-morning routine—packing his daughter Charlotte’s lunch before school. He reached for a generic sandwich bag (the kind you buy in bulk, naturally), popped in the turkey and cheese, and was […]
Detecting PFAS Through Total Fluorine Content: The Power of Combustion Ion Chromatography
Many everyday consumer products contain harmful chemicals known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). Dubbed “forever chemicals” due to their extreme resistance to chemical breakdown, PFAS are both incredibly useful and notoriously difficult to detect, isolate, and quantify. Their persistence in the environment and potential health risks have led to growing concerns and increased regulatory […]
