Nanoparticle analysis in the laboratory
Phytocontrol supports you in the research and size determination of titanium dioxide (E171), gold (E175) and silver (E174) nanoparticles.
The laboratory thus takes up the challenge of monitoring these compounds through a specific and innovative analysis enabling the characterisation of these inorganic nanomaterials in foodstuffs, water and cosmetic products.
The world of nanotechnology has revealed that matter acquires new properties (physical, chemical, biological, etc.) when the products used are measured in millionths of a millimetre. Nanomaterials thus form a new family of chemical agents that display multiple differences in terms of composition, dimensional characteristics and physico-chemical properties. For example, gold is completely inactive at the micrometric scale, but becomes an excellent catalyst for chemical reactions when it reaches nanometric dimensions.
Nanomaterials present in the food industry, water and cosmetic products
Inorganic nanoparticles are used in the food industry as additives depending on their properties: flavour enhancers, whitening agents, decoration, anti-caking agents, clarifying agents or abrasives, etc. They can also be found in cosmetic products and wastewater.
Titanium dioxide (TiO2)
Listed as an additive (E171), TiO2 is used for its whitening and glossy properties in many confectionery items, pastry decorations, ice cream and biscuits. From a regulatory standpoint, it is banned in foodstuffs.
Gold nanoparticles
Gold leaf or powder (E175) is used mainly as a colouring agent, or for decorating confectionery and chocolates, as well as in liqueurs. Gold nanoparticles may be present in wastewater.
Gold nanoparticles have optical properties used in nanomedicine for anti-cancer therapy and imaging. They are also used in cosmetic formulations such as creams, make-up, powders, etc.
Silver nanoparticles
Silver nanoparticles are mainly used for their biocidal properties, through the release of Ag+ ions (known for their toxicity). They are found in certain food supplements, food packaging, non-food products (e.g. toothpaste), and textiles. Silver nanoparticles may be used as a food additive (E174), mainly for decorating confectionery and pastries.
The Phytocontrol solution
Phytocontrol is able to detect and quantify the particle size distribution of titanium dioxide, gold and silver nanoparticles using its latest-generation SP-ICP-MS technology.
The Group’s 3 areas of expertise: Agrifood for the food industry, Waters for the water and environment sector, and Biopharma for the cosmetic products sector, support you in managing potential risks related to nanomaterials according to your field of application.
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