Quant FT-NIR Analyser System Survey

Company: QuadraChem Laboratories Ltd (QCL)

Instrument name: Quant FT-NIR Analyser System

Website: www.qclscientific.com

Cost range: 45-50,000

Analytes/properties being tested: FT-NIR Spectroscopy can be used to determine nearly any constituent in any material. Parameters such as Fat, Protein, Moisture, Salt, pH, density, lactose, % Trans, IV, Fibre, FFA, etc. Ranges are as great as those available from the product available. FT-NIR spectroscopy is not suited for analysis of very low (ppm) concentration parameters.

Applications: No specific applications, designed for complete adaptability to any required application. E.g. Cereals & Grains, Meats, Dairy Products, Drinks, Oils, Fats, Animal & Pet Feeds, Soils, Food powders, Ready meals, etc.

What samples can be analysed: Any sample type possible (liquid, powder, coarse mixture, pastes, etc.). Designed to ensure there is no sample preparation. Different sample accessories are used for different sample types. Bespoke sample accessories are made for specific applications.

How long does the analysis take: 20-60 Seconds depending on sample type.

How does it work?: FT-NIR Spectroscopy.

How to perform the test?: Different for different sample types. Example for whole grain:
1. Pour sample into generic glass jar up to halfway and put on lid.
2. Place on Quant bottle sample accessory.
3. Enter sample info into software on controller PC.
4. Press Enter. Sample analysed over 20-60 seconds.
5. Results displayed.

Specialised facility required: Can be used in manufacturing environment, system specifically designed for use by non-skilled operators.

Additional equipment needed: None

How accurate are measurements?: Depends on repeatability of reference method used to calibrate system. E.g. for Butter salt and moisture analysis standard error or prediction is typically 0.05% and 0.1% respectively.

Other advantages?: Rapid, easy to use, can be used by production for real time production trimming, no individual analysis cost, no use of reagents, no waste chemical disposal, reliable and robust. Benefits over other NIR systems in that Quant has greatest spectroscopic performance over whole NIR region and does not require yearly services.

Weblinks: http://www.qclscientific.com/qinterlinequant.html
http://www.qclscientific.com/qinterlinequantapps.html

Author: Mark L Whatton

Date: 06 June 2011