Sample Submission Guidelines

At Alfa Chemistry, we specialize in offering top-notch deformulation analysis services to help our clients in troubleshooting manufacturing problems, product failure investigation, and competitive product analysis. We value the accuracy and repeatability of the results. And the pre-requisite to accuracy and repeatability of results is the provision of adequate and correctly prepared samples. Below is a comprehensive guide that outlines the essential details about sample submission involving containers, packaging, info, and shipping. Following our submission guideline can ensure your sample remains in its original state during transportation to our lab, thereby enabling accurate analysis.

Sample Containers

The choice of container for your sample can greatly influence the result of the analysis. The container must be clean and dry to prevent contamination. Moreover, different types of samples require different types of containers.

For solid samples, use unbreakable containers that will not allow the powder to escape.
For liquid samples, use screw-cap bottles. Be sure that they are sealed tightly to prevent leaks.

The use of breakable containers like glass should be minimized unless necessary. Properly label each sample container with information such as sample name, date of collection, and any other identifiers as necessary. In addition, choose a container material that doesn't react with your sample. If you're unsure about the ideal type of container, feel free to consult with our technical team. Another important aspect of this is that don't overload your sample containers, and you can fill up to 75% of the container capacity to allow any possible sample expansion.

Sample Packaging

Once your sample is securely stored in a suitable container, the next important step is packaging for shipment. Here some guidelines to follow:

Liquid samples should be placed in sealable container with absorbent material. This helps prevent spillage during transportation.
If you're submitting several samples, you can place all separately samples into a larger sealable container.
Place the sealable container into a secondary, sturdy container such as a box or padded envelope. Fill any remaining space within the secondary container during transit.
If your samples need to be kept cold, consider using an insulated (Styrofoam) box. Add ice packs or dry ice as necessary, and opt for overnight shipping.

Sample Info

For every sample that you submit, please provide the following information whenever possible:

Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
Completed sample submission form
Any additional sample information that may be relevant to the analysis being conducted

Sample Shipping

After proper packaging, the next step is shipping.

Ensure that you select a reputable courier that can deliver within a reasonable timeline to maintain the integrity of the sample. If your sample is fragile or sensitive to changes in temperature, we recommend you use express shipping.
Please refer to the corresponding guidelines for the transport of hazardous materials.
Additionally, notify our team at Alfa Chemistry about the dispatched samples via an email or a phone call to ensure we are expecting your sample.

Following these guidelines will ensure that we receive your samples in the best possible condition and consequently, provide the most accurate results. We appreciate your cooperation and look forward to serving your deformulation analysis needs. Do not hesitate to contact us if you need any help regarding the sample submission process.

Please kindly note that our products and services are for research use only.