Cleaning products made from natural and bio-based ingredients

Measuring the biobased content of industrial products

Precisely determine the percentage of bio-based carbon in your materials through carbon 14 analysis.CIRAM supports you, industry players, in proving the bio-based nature of your products and formulations, in order to meet regulatory, normative, and commercial requirements.

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What is a biobased product?

A bio-based product is a product made from biomass (organic matter of plant, animal, or microbial origin: plants, algae, microorganisms, agricultural or food waste). Biomass is a renewable resource.

Consequently, a bio-based product is distinguished from fossil-based materials by its renewable carbon content. It thus represents a promising alternative to fossil resources and a major environmental advantage since it has a low carbon footprint.

The measurement of bio-based carbon content relies on radiocarbon (carbon-14) analysis, the international reference method for distinguishing carbon from renewable resources from that originating from fossil sources.

This analysis is guided by several recognized standards, including:

Bio-based products are used in many sectors: bioplastics, industrial polymers, biodegradable lubricants, solvents, adhesives, detergents, or even cosmetics.

To learn more about the subject and discover all the uses of bio-based products, you can consult our article: What is a bio-based product?

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They trust us

Many companies engaged in the ecological transition and green chemistry rely on CIRAM analyses to quantify the bio-based content of their products.

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Why measure the biobased content of an industrial product?

In a context where industrialists must justify their environmental commitments, the quantification of bio-based carbon content is becoming a strategic issue. Today, you must meet growing demands:

  • Obtaining environmental certifications,
  • Regulatory compliance,
  • Requirements of industrial and retail customers,
  • Integration into certification and CSR initiatives.

In this context, radiocarbon dating makes it possible to:

  • Ensure the traceability of raw materials,
  • Secure the environmental claims,
  • Demonstrate a real commitment to the circular economy,
  • Accessing demanding markets (cosmetics, bioplastics, food packaging…),
  • Reduce the risk of greenwashing,
  • Provide reliable data for R&D and eco-design.

Beyond analysis, the challenge is also the interpretation and valorization of results. This is why CIRAM acts as an independent scientific third party, supporting you at every stage: from defining the need to carbon 14 and isotopic analysis, then to the presentation of actionable results for your R&D, quality, marketing, or CSR teams.

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Our methods for distinguishing between synthetic and natural products

At CIRAM, we use cutting-edge methods to accurately measure the amount of bio-based carbon in your industrial materials and verify their origin (botanical, geographical, biosynthesis, etc.). Depending on the nature of your product and your objectives, we apply two complementary approaches:

01 - Radiocarbon analysis by gas pedal mass spectrometry (AMS)

This cutting-edge technology accurately differentiates fossil-based carbon from bio-based carbon derived from recent plant or animal matter, even in very small quantities. It is now the benchmark for certifying the renewable composition of products involved in eco-design, labeling, or Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) processes. It is ideal for:

  • Determine the percentage of bio-based carbon in polymers, bioplastics, cosmetics, biofuels, and other carbon-containing materials,
  • Check compliance with international standards (ASTM D6866, NF EN 16640, ISO 16620-2…),
  • Distinguish between fossil and renewable energy sources in complex statements.

02 - Stable isotope analysis (carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, hydrogen)

This method is based on the study of isotopic ratios and complements radiocarbon analysis. It makes it possible to:

  • Trace the origin of carbon (plant, animal, marine, etc.),
  • Refine the interpretation of radiocarbon analysis results,
  • Verify the authenticity of natural products (fragrances, flavorings, food additives),
  • Define the geographical origin of raw materials (cotton, coffee, meat, etc.).

By combining these two methods, CIRAM guarantees reliable analyses adapted to industrial requirements.

The steps involved in analyzing biobased content at CIRAM

The quantification of bio-based content at CIRAM follows a structured process, designed to ensure reliable, actionable results that comply with regulatory and commercial expectations:

01 - Analysis of your challenges

We take the time to understand your product, your objectives (marketing, compliance, traceability), and the regulatory requirements you must meet in order to advise you on the best analytical approach.

02 - Sampling protocol

We provide you with a detailed guide to building and shipping your samples in the best possible conditions.

03 - Laboratory preparation

Our experts process samples according to rigorous standards to guarantee the scientific integrity of the results.

04 - Biobased content analysis

We are performing a carbon-14 analysis to quantify the percentage of renewable carbon, and an isotopic analysis to refine the characterization.

05 - Restitution and support

You’ll receive a comprehensive report that your marketing, R&D, or quality teams can use, and we’ll help you interpret the results.

Why choose CIRAM to quantify your biobased products?

By choosing CIRAM, you are calling upon an independent laboratory recognized for its expertise in carbon 14 analysis applied to industry. For over 20 years, we have been supporting companies in the scientific validation of their bio-based products, combining analytical rigor with a keen understanding of regulatory and marketing challenges.

Our analyses comply with international standards (ASTM D6866, NF EN 16640, NF EN ISO 21644, NF EN ISO 13833…), guaranteeing actionable results for certifications, audits, or CSR strategies. We are committed to providing you with reliable results within 10 business days, with personalized support at every step.

Our multidisciplinary team combines expertise in materials science, analytical chemistry, and mass spectrometry, offering comprehensive analyses and tailored solutions for every industry sector.

CIRAM is the guarantee of recognized expertise, total objectivity, and operational support to concretely enhance your bio-based commitments.

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Are you asking yourself these questions?

Which products can be analyzed to quantify their bio-based content?

All materials containing carbon, solid, liquid and gas: polymers, resins, oils, solvents, cosmetics, textiles, inks, biofuels, CSR, CO2 emissions, packaging, etc.

How do I send a sample for analysis?

We provide detailed instructions for packaging and shipping, ensuring sample integrity until analysis. You can find all this information in our sampling best practices guide.

Can the results be used to obtain certifications?

Yes. Our reports comply with international ISO, ASTM, and EN standards and can be included in your certification or Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) documentation.

Can I have several formulations analyzed to compare their biobased carbon content?

Absolutely. We offer comparative analyses to help you choose your raw materials or validate your batches.

How long does it take to get results?

Results are delivered within 5 to 10 working days of receipt of the sample.

How much does a biobased content analysis cost?

This depends on the type of product, the number of samples and the standards involved. Contact us for a customized quote.

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Your other challenges in the Biobased Industry

How to prepare and send industrial samples for analysis
How to prepare and send industrial samples for analysis

Prepare your industrial samples in the best conditions to guarantee reliable and actionable results.

Analysis of product naturalness: verifying natural origin using carbon-14 and isotopic analysis
Analysis of product naturalness: verifying natural origin using carbon-14 and isotopic analysis

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Analysis of biogenic carbon: biofuels, CSR, and CO₂ emissions

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