Physical and chemical characterisation for engineered safe handling
Material characterisation generates the physical and chemical property data essential for safe storage, transport, and handling design. Outputs cover density, viscosity, melting/boiling points, electrostatic properties, and dust characteristics.
A structured, facilitated process — from scope definition through close-out — producing defensible, actionable outputs.
Determine physical properties — boiling point (ASTM D86), melting point (ASTM D87), vapour pressure (ASTM D2879), density (ASTM D5057), viscosity (ASTM D445), surface tension (ASTM D971); align with REACH Annex VII physico-chemical.
Conduct thermal property testing — DSC for melting / glass transition, TGA for thermal decomposition / volatile content, specific heat (ASTM E1269), thermal conductivity (ASTM E1530); align with reactor / heat exchanger design.
Conduct material compatibility testing — peroxide formation (ASTM E298), water reactivity (UN TDG Class 4.3), self-heating (UN Test N.4), pyrophoricity (UN Test N.2); align with UN TDG hazard classification.
For solids, characterise particle size (laser diffraction per ISO 13320), morphology (SEM), bulk density (ASTM D1895), flowability (Carr Index / Hausner Ratio); align with dust hazard assessment and storage / handling design.
Classify per UN TDG (Transport of Dangerous Goods) Class 1-9 and GHS (Globally Harmonised System) physical / health / environmental hazards; specify packing group, packaging requirements, and hazard labels.
Compile material characterisation dossier with test reports, classification, and handling recommendations; integrate with OSHA PSM Process Safety Information, SDS, REACH dossier; align with corporate product stewardship.
Speak with our team to scope an engagement tailored to your facility, regulatory context, and lifecycle stage.