Plastic Identification Applications in Our Portfolio
We provide NIR spectroscopy analyses to identify the correct polymer type in various materials. Our chemometric models, developed using extensive spectral data from BASF and trusted partners, achieve lab-grade accuracy.
For more detailed information on our plastic identification applications, click here.
10 Plastics
Plastic Sorting
Plastics Max
Multi-Material Films
PE-PP
10 Plastics Reflectivity
Compostable Plastics
Sample Preparation Guide
1. Clean your window before measuring
Keep the scan window clean and dry to ensure a flawless measurement.
When needed, use soft gauze and alcohol like ethanol or isopropanol for cleaning.
Check regularly in between measurements if there is dirt, particles or other contamination on the scan window.
2. Clean your sample
Make sure that your sample is dry and clean before you start the measurement.
When scanning wet samples, please use a dry cloth to wipe off any waterdrops on the material as water will affect the result.
3. Keep direct contact with the sample when measuring
Always maintain direct contact between the sample and the scan window of the spectrometer.
Measurement Guide
For a detailed explanation watch our tutorial on how to measure plastic samples (external link).
Granules
You can scan flakes or granules directly in the bag – just make sure the bag is open so you arenot scanning the bag material itself.
For smaller quantities, we recommend using the white reference standard, a ceramic tile, or a ceramic bowl.
IMPORTANT: Always cover as much of the scan window as possible with the material you are measuring.
Films and Transparent Samples
Measurement setup
Place the scan window directly on the sample. For thin films, stack multiple layers as needed.
Use a reflective backing
When measuring films or transparent samples, place the white reference standard (or a white, matte ceramic tile/bowl) behind the sample. This backing acts as a “mirror” reflecting the light so the sensor can detect it.
Why a reflective backing?
Thin or transparent films let most light pass through, so they don’t naturally reflect enough light for accurate measurement. A reflective surface ensures sufficient light is bounced back to the sensor.
PRACTICAL TIP: When scanning films – especially over a ceramic tile, one-sided testing is usually sufficient. However, we recommend testing multiple positions to avoid inaccurate readings from printed areas or other irregularities.
FAQs
We impose quality requirements on the recorded spectral data to perform a valuable analysis. Whenever a measurement shows large spectral deviations from the expected form it is excluded from the analysis. To learn more please refer to Chemometrics.
To avoid measurement errors (outliers), make sure to stay in direct contact between your sample and the spectrometer. It can also help to clean the scan window or to perform a calibration. When it comes to identifying films, try folding or stacking thin films or place the calibration target behind the sample.
Our applications are only applicable for the materials listed above. However, we are continuously increasing our portfolio. Please get in touch with our Customer Support and tell us what you need.
Only the plastic types listed in the application description can be correctly identified.
The “Plastic” and “Plastic Plus” applications do not support blended materials unless explicitly stated. Measuring an unsupported material may lead to inaccurate results.
No, unfortunately this is not possible. Black plastics are typically dyed with carbon black, which absorbs near-infrared light, preventing us from obtaining information about the sample. This is a common issue in the industry.
The plastic identification applications report only the polymer type and do not provide details about filler materials or additives. A separate application is needed for that information.