Elemental Testing For Agrochemicals
By Exeter Analytical (UK) Ltd in Coventry
The agrochemical industry plays a critical role in global food production, protecting crops and enhancing yields. However, the very nature of these products – pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, fertilizers, and other plant protection products – demands rigorous quality control and stringent safety assessments. This is where elemental testing becomes an indispensable tool.
At Exeter Analytical, we understand the complex chemical composition of agrochemical formulations and the potential for elemental impurities. Our specialised analytical testing services are designed to help manufacturers, distributors, and regulators ensure the safety, efficacy, and regulatory compliance of their products, from raw materials to finished goods. Why not get in touch to find out more about our testing methods?
1994
EST.
CALL OUR TEAM ON 024 7632 3223 FOR A QUOTE
Why is Elemental Testing Crucial for Agrochemicals?
Safety for Crops, Environment, and Consumers:
Heavy Metal Contamination: Undesirable heavy metals (e.g., arsenic, cadmium, lead, mercury) in agrochemicals can accumulate in soil, water, and ultimately, in crops, posing direct risks to human health through the food chain. Our trace element analysis identifies these harmful contaminants.
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Environmental Impact: High levels of certain elements can negatively impact soil health, water quality, and biodiversity. Elemental testing helps to monitor and mitigate these environmental risks.
Quality Control & Formulation Integrity:
Raw Material Verification: Elemental analysis of agrochemical raw materials ensures that incoming components meet purity specifications, preventing costly issues down the line.
Nutrient Content Verification (for Fertilizers): For fertilizers, precise elemental testing confirms the declared levels of essential macronutrients (e.g., nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) and micronutrients (e.g., zinc, iron, manganese, boron), directly impacting efficacy and product performance.
Catalyst Residues: If metal catalysts are used in the synthesis of active ingredients, elemental testing can detect and quantify residual levels, ensuring they are within safe limits.
Product Performance & Stability:
Unwanted elemental impurities can sometimes interfere with the stability or efficacy of the active ingredients, leading to suboptimal performance of the agrochemical product.
Key Elements of Interest in Agrochemical Testing:
While a comprehensive analysis may cover many elements, common foci for elemental impurity testing include:
Heavy Metals:
Arsenic (As), Cadmium (Cd), Lead (Pb), Mercury (Hg)
Other Toxic/Harmful Elements:
Chromium (Cr), Nickel (Ni), Vanadium (V), Antimony (Sb)
Nutrients (especially for Fertilizers):
Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Sulfur (S), Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), Boron (B), Molybdenum (Mo), Chloride (Cl).
CALL US TODAY ON 024 7632 3223 FOR A QUOTE
Exeter Analytical offers ICP‑OES capabilities for highly sensitive and accurate elemental analysis of agrochemicals. Partner with us to ensure the safety, effectiveness, and compliance of your products, contributing to sustainable agriculture and food security.
024 7632 3223