Comprehensive nanoparticle characterization services to decode the physicochemical identity of your nanomaterials.
Understanding the precise structural and physicochemical properties of nanoparticles is the cornerstone of successful nanomaterial research. From core morphology to surface chemistry, even minor variations can drastically alter experimental outcomes. BOC Sciences provides a full spectrum of nanoparticle structural characterization services, employing advanced microscopy, spectroscopy, and diffraction techniques. We help researchers validate synthesis quality, troubleshoot stability issues, and generate publication-ready data, ensuring that the nanomaterials you use in your experiments meet the highest standards of consistency and definition.
Nanoparticle characterization via beam–matter interactionsOur analytical portfolio covers the critical physical and chemical dimensions of nanomaterials. We offer multi-technique validation to confirm size, shape, composition, and surface properties.
Direct visualization and statistical sizing of nanoparticles to determine their true physical dimensions and aggregation states. We provide high-contrast imaging for both hard and soft materials.
Quantifying surface functionality and electrostatic stability. We analyze surface modifications, ligand density, and charge distribution to predict colloidal behavior.
Determining the crystalline phase, elemental composition, and purity of inorganic cores. Essential for validating magnetic, plasmonic, or catalytic properties.
Assessing how nanoparticles respond to temperature changes and measuring organic content (e.g., polymer coatings or drug loading) relative to the inorganic core.
Critical for mesoporous silica, MOFs, and catalytic nanoparticles. We measure specific surface area and pore size distribution to evaluate loading capacity.
Specialized techniques for analyzing liposomes, micelles, and polymer nanoparticles in their native hydrated state without dehydration artifacts.
Don't let ambiguous characterization data stall your project. BOC Sciences delivers detailed, high-fidelity analysis reports that provide the definitive proof your research requires.
BOC Sciences provides tailored analytical solutions across a diverse range of nanomaterial categories. Our integrated service packages ensure that the most critical physical and chemical parameters are accurately measured using industry-leading instrumentation.
| Nanoparticle Type | Key Measurement Parameters | Analytical Solutions |
| Lipid Nanoparticles (LNPs) / Liposomes | Particle size, encapsulation efficiency, lamellarity, and bilayer integrity are crucial for drug delivery stability and release profile. | Cryo-TEM, DLS analysis, HPLC/ELSD for lipid composition |
| Metal Nanoparticles (Au, Ag, Pt) | Size, morphology, and crystal structure are essential for performance, structural analysis, and functional properties. | TEM imaging, DLS analysis, XRD phase identification |
| Metal Oxide Nanoparticles | Size, crystal phase, and surface area are key for dispersibility, material properties, and catalytic/adsorption performance. | TEM imaging, XRD phase identification, BET surface area measurement |
| Polymer Nanoparticles (PLGA, PEG-modified) | Size distribution, surface charge, and dispersibility determine uniformity, stability, and application outcomes. | DLS analysis, Zeta potential measurement, TEM imaging |
| Carbon-based Nanoparticles (Graphene, Carbon Nanotubes) | Size, surface morphology, and functional groups are critical for processing, structural characterization, and surface functionality. | TEM imaging, AFM surface characterization, FTIR surface analysis |
| Quantum Dots / Fluorescent Nanoparticles | Size, morphology, and optical properties correspond to particle quality, structural assessment, and application performance. | TEM imaging, DLS analysis, Fluorescence spectroscopy |
| Magnetic Nanoparticles | Size, crystal structure, and magnetic properties are important for dispersibility, magnetic analysis, and application effectiveness. | TEM imaging, XRD phase identification, VSM magnetic property measurement |
Nanoparticles often present unique analytical difficulties. BOC Sciences applies optimized sample preparation and expert data interpretation to overcome these technical hurdles.
✔ Aggregation Artifacts
Drying effects in TEM can mimic aggregation. We use specialized grid preparation and staining techniques (or Cryo-EM) to distinguish true aggregates from drying artifacts.
✔ Low Contrast Samples
Organic nanoparticles (liposomes, polymers) often lack contrast. We employ negative staining (Uranyl Acetate/PTA) to enhance boundary visibility for accurate sizing.
✔ Complex Size Distributions
Standard DLS struggles with polydisperse samples. We combine DLS with NTA and TEM statistical analysis to provide a true representation of the population.
✔ Beam Sensitivity
Some materials degrade under electron beams. We utilize low-dose imaging protocols and fast acquisition rates to capture structures before damage occurs.
✔ Trace Contamination
Synthesis byproducts can skew results. We offer pre-analysis purification services to ensure the characterization data reflects the nanoparticle, not the background.
✔ Complex Matrix Analysis
Characterizing nanoparticles in biological media (e.g., serum) is difficult. We have protocols to analyze stability and protein corona formation in relevant fluids.
We review your sample type (solid/liquid, composition) and research goals to recommend the most appropriate characterization techniques.
Expert preparation including dispersion, grid mounting, staining, or dilution optimization to ensure high-quality signal detection.
Execution of analytical runs using calibrated instruments followed by expert data processing (e.g., crystal lattice measurement, curve fitting).
Delivery of a comprehensive report containing raw data files, processed images/graphs, and a detailed summary of findings.
Client: A materials science group synthesizing Au@SiO2 nanoparticles.
Challenge: The client needed to verify the uniformity of the silica shell thickness to correlate it with changes in plasmonic properties. Standard TEM showed low contrast between the shell and the grid background.
Solution: BOC Sciences applied high-resolution TEM combined with contrast optimization to enhance differentiation between the silica shell and background. Elemental mapping via EDS was integrated to spatially resolve Au and Si signals. Line-scan profiling across multiple nanoparticles enabled quantitative comparison of core and shell regions, ensuring statistically reliable assessment of shell thickness uniformity and structural integrity.
Outcome: The analysis confirmed a uniform shell thickness of 5 nm ± 0.5 nm. The EDS maps provided definitive proof of the core-shell architecture, enabling the client to publish their findings in a high-impact journal.
Client: A university lab developing RNA delivery vectors.
Challenge: The client observed variations in transfection efficiency and suspected aggregation during storage. Routine DLS was inconclusive regarding the nature of the instability.
Solution: BOC Sciences implemented Cryo-EM to directly observe LNP morphology and aggregation behavior under native, hydrated conditions. Complementary zeta potential measurements across a controlled pH range were performed to quantify surface charge evolution. Correlating structural observations with electrostatic data enabled identification of the pH-dependent stability window and underlying aggregation mechanism.
Outcome: Cryo-EM revealed that the particles maintained spherical morphology but formed loose clusters at pH 6.0 due to surface charge neutralization (confirmed by Zeta data). The client adjusted the storage buffer pH, restoring stability and efficacy.
Multi-Technique CorrelationWe don't rely on a single method. We cross-validate data (e.g., comparing DLS size vs. TEM size) to provide a holistic and accurate understanding of your material.
Expert Data InterpretationRaw data can be confusing. Our Ph.D. level scientists analyze the results, ruling out artifacts and providing clear, actionable insights in every report.
Challenging Sample HandlingFrom magnetic particles that distort EM beams to ultra-small quantum dots, we have specialized protocols to handle difficult-to-analyze nanomaterials.
Rapid Turnaround TimeWe understand the pace of research. Our optimized workflows ensure you receive your characterization data quickly, keeping your project on timeline.
Customizable ReportingWhether you need a simple size check or a comprehensive physicochemical dossier, we tailor our analysis and reporting to fit your specific research needs.
The crystal structure of nanoparticles can be determined using X-ray diffraction (XRD) or electron diffraction to reveal crystal type, lattice parameters, and defect distribution. BOC Sciences provides high-precision structural analysis services, integrating multiple techniques to deliver comprehensive crystal information, supporting material design and functional optimization.
Internal defects such as vacancies, dislocations, and impurities significantly affect nanoparticle performance. Using high-resolution TEM (HRTEM) and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS), BOC Sciences can accurately identify and quantify defects, providing scientific guidance for material optimization and structural improvement.
Crystallinity directly influences nanoparticle stability, catalytic activity, and functionalization efficiency. BOC Sciences evaluates crystallinity through XRD combined with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), linking structural properties with performance data to help optimize materials and process parameters.
Crystal orientation governs surface activity and anisotropic properties. Techniques such as selected area electron diffraction (SAED) and high-resolution TEM allow precise determination of crystal orientation. BOC Sciences offers accurate orientation analysis to help clients understand the structure-function relationship and design high-performance nanoparticles.
Structural diversity in nanoparticles—including crystal type, size, and defect distribution—affects overall material performance. BOC Sciences provides comprehensive assessment using multiple characterization techniques, including TEM, XRD, and AFM, helping clients optimize synthesis processes and improve material functionality.
