The Importance of Chemical Deformulation Analysis

You may be asking what exactly is chemical deformulation analysis and why do I need it?  It’s a great question that we get asked often and we would like to share some insight from more of a business perspective rather than a technical lab perspective.

First, let’s define what “Deformulation” is.  Deformulation refers to a set of analytical procedures used to separate and identify individual components of a formulated chemical substance.  In the simplest terms, it’s a process to determine the recipe of ingredients in a chemical product.  It’s also called chemical reverse engineering.

Depending on the formula and types of ingredients, it can be a very difficult process to disassociate the smallest particles into a known ingredient and quantity within the mixture.  And in the case of a polymeric material, identifying the chemical nature of the polymer or copolymer is critical. It certainly will take a skilled lab with the proper tools to perform such an analysis.  We won’t get into all the technical terms here, but always make sure to ask plenty of questions prior to engaging with a deformulation services company before starting work to avoid any delays.

So why is it so important to perform a chemical deformulation analysis?

Great question.  Here are a few reasons to contract with an experienced chemical lab:

  • You wish to replicate a competitive product.
  • There was a problem with a prior manufactured batch and you need to determine what the problem was to avoid any further losses, or you need 3rd party verification that your contracted chemical manufacturer failed in delivering a product as contractually agreed upon
  • You believe that a competitor has infringed on your product formula and you need proof for litigation reasons
  • There is a potential conflict of interest with a past employee sharing confidential information
  • You have misplaced or lost the only copy of the formula for your product

Some of the products you can perform deformulation analysis on are:

  • Adhesives
  • Coatings
  • Sealants
  • Plastic Parts
  • Lubricants
  • Janitorial cleaners
  • Commercial cleaners
  • Perfumes and cosmetics
  • Food grade products
  • Home and health products
  • And many more

The best part of partnering with National Polymer is the absolute promise to help guide you through the entire process from start to finish.  We fully understand that there are many pitfalls possible and we are here to minimize them for you.  Contact us for a free confidential preliminary discussion to determine the best possible approach to chemical deformulation analysis for your product.  We are not satisfied until you fully are.

National Polymer is a leading R&D and manufacturing company specializing in formulation chemistry, pilot coating, coating technologies, deformulation, reformulation, batch optimization, and production.  To learn more about our capabilities, call us today at (800) 679.0477.

And thank you for reading our blog.