Located in Seattle Washington, Lab/Cor Inc. is an analytical laboratory designed initially as a consortium of scientists. Each scientist brings a multidisciplinary approach to microscopy and microanalysis, providing a rich and diverse experience bank of knowledge with a broad foundation in theoretical background. Formed in July 1992 as the successor to Pinchin Harris Holland Associates, Inc., Lab/Cor continues to provide the scientific community with its expertise in electron microscopy and microanalysis.
Lab/Cor is highly experienced at providing analytical services to the marine industry. We serve both individual boat owners as well as manufacturers and service providers in a range of areas including material testing, failure analysis, and fuel testing (including biodiesel).
Recent projects have included testing of drinking water for contaminants such as antifreeze, analysis of prototype paints by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and examination of engine wear debris.
If you have any questions about our marine services, please contact us. You may also wish to download our Marine Solutions brochure.
A toy being screened for Phthalates
Lab/Cor is pleased to announce that we are now testing for Phthalates. Phthalates (pronounced THAL-ates) are a group of polymer additives which have been shown to cause a variety of health problems for people of all ages. High levels of phthalates can cause damage to the liver and genitals, and children are most susceptible. Small amounts of exposure have been shown to alter hormonal balances, so you may wish to know whether or not your child's toys contain this harmful substance. Beginning in 2009 the concentration of phthalates present in new items will be regulated by the Children's Safe Product Act, recently signed into law by Gov. Gregoire.
Any rubbery or soft item is a possible carrier of phthalates. Toy manufacturers use the additive to make PVC (a normally hard plastic) soft, as in the case of many plastic insects, for example. The most popular type of phthalate is called Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate or DEHP and it is found in everything from children's slippers to common reusable water bottles.
Screening for phthalates is extremely easy and quick. At Lab/Cor, we can test almost anything you bring to us in a non-destructive manner, so you can keep using your phthalate-free items after testing. Testing is done with FT-IR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) and will identify both the type of plastic and whither or not it contains phthalates in seconds.
Check our Materials Analysis page for more information. You may also download our brochure on phthalate testing.
AQ-300 KF Titrator
Lab/Cor has purchased a Karl Fischer Coulometric Titrator for oil moisture analysis. This device allows for extremely sensitive and precise measurement of moisture in many types of oil. Lab/Cor staff have developed standardized methods for measurement of transformer oil and diesel fuels that will allow a high degree of repeatability.
See Analytical Services for more information.