industrial samples for bio-based carbon-14 analysis

Measuring the biobased content of industrial products

Accurately determine the percentage of biobased carbon in your materials using carbon-14 analysis.

CIRAM supports industry players in demonstrating the biobased nature of their products and formulations, in order to meet regulatory, standards-based, and commercial requirements.

Contact our teams
CIRAM Bio-based Industry

What is a biobased product?

A biobased product is a product made from renewable biomass derived from organic materials of plant, animal, or microbial origin (plants, algae, microorganisms, agricultural or food waste).

This type of product differs from fossil-based materials in that it contains renewable carbon derived from biomass, which helps reduce its environmental impact.

The biobased carbon content is determined by radiocarbon analysis (carbon-14), an internationally recognized method for distinguishing carbon derived from renewable resources from that derived from fossil sources.

This analysis is guided by several recognized standards, including:

Biobased products are used in many industries, including bioplastics, industrial polymers, biodegradable lubricants, solvents, adhesives, detergents, and cosmetics.

To learn more about this topic and discover all the uses of biobased products, read our full article: What is a biobased product?

Request a quote

They trust us

Many companies involved in the ecological transition and green chemistry rely on CIRAM analyses to quantify the biobased content of their products.

logo dossier essilor 2023
Solvay Logo 2023.svg
IFPEN
L'Oréal
Michelin
Eiffage
quantify a CIRAM bio-based product

Why measure the biobased content of an industrial product?

In a climate where manufacturers must demonstrate their environmental commitments, quantifying the bio-based carbon content has become a strategic priority.

Today, companies must meet increasingly stringent requirements:

  • 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,
  • Substantiating environmental claims,
  • Demonstrate a genuine commitment tothe circular economy,
  • Access to demanding markets (cosmetics, bioplastics, food packaging...),
  • Reduce the risk of greenwashing,
  • Provide reliable data for R&D and eco-design.

Beyond the analysis itself, the challenge also liesin interpreting and leveraging the results. That is why CIRAM acts as an independent scientific third party, supporting industry partners at every stage: from defining their needs through carbon-14 and isotopic analysis, to delivering actionable results for R&D, quality, marketing, and CSR teams.

Explore the areas of application

Our methods for distinguishing between synthetic and natural products

At CIRAM, we use state-of-the-art methods to accurately measure the amount of bio-based carbon in your industrial materials and verify their origin (botanical, geographical, biosynthetic, etc.).

Depending on the nature of your product and your objectives, we take two complementary approaches:

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

This cutting-edge technology makes it possible to accurately distinguish between fossil-based carbon and biobased carbon derived from recent plant or animal matter, even in very small quantities. It is now the industry standard for certifying the renewable composition of products involved in eco-design, labeling, or Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) initiatives. It is ideal for:

  • Determine the percentage of bio-based carbon in polymers, bioplastics, cosmetics, biofuels, and other carbon-containing materials,
  • Verify 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 tailored to industrial requirements.

The steps involved in analyzing biobased content at CIRAM

CIRAM's quantification of biobased content follows a structured process, designed to guarantee reliable, usable results that comply with normative 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 perform carbon-14 analysis analysis to quantify the percentage of renewable carbon, and isotopic analysis to refine 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?

When you choose CIRAM, you choose an independent laboratory renowned 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 biobased products, combining analytical rigor with a detailed understanding of regulatory and marketing issues.

Our analyses comply with international standards (ASTM D6866, NF EN 16640, NF EN ISO 21644, NF EN ISO 13833, etc.), ensuring results that can be used for certification, audits, or CSR strategies. We are committed to providing you with reliable results within 10 business days, along 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.

CIRAM is your guarantee of recognized expertise, total objectivity and operational support to help you make the most of your biobased commitments.

Contact our teams

Are you asking yourself these questions?

What types of products can be analyzed to quantify their biobased 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 packaging and shipping instructions, guaranteeing sample integrity right through to analysis.

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.

Make an appointment with an expert

Get all the answers to your questions!

Make an appointment

Your other challenges in the Biobased Industry

NF EN 16640
NF EN 16640

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

Check the authenticity and natural composition of your products to meet the requirements of eco-labels and consumers.

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

Determine the biobased content of your fuels and quantify biogenic emissions in line with environmental standards.

ASTM D6866: Reference Method for Bio-based Content
ASTM D6866: Reference Method for Bio-based Content

Make sure your products meet international standards for biobased content by following ASTM D6866.

Explore our dating and analysis resources

Industry
Milk adulteration: what laboratory testing methods are available?

Milk adulteration: what laboratory testing methods are available?

Milk adulteration is a threat to the quality and conformity of dairy products. What methods can be used to detect these frauds quickly, reliably and ...

Read the article

Industry
How to check the naturalness of a flavor using carbon 14?

How to check the naturalness of a flavor using carbon 14?

Test the naturalness of your flavors and dietary supplements using radiocarbon and stable isotopes. Carbon 14 and stable isotopes allow...

Read the article

Industry
Why trust an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory for your stable isotope analyses?

Why trust an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory for your stable isotope analyses?

Stable isotope measurements play a key role in the quality control and traceability of industrial materials. But how can you be sure of the reliability of your results? By entrusting your...

Read the article

Industry
ISCC Plus certification: how to secure your biobased supply chains?

ISCC Plus certification: how to secure your biobased supply chains?

Increasing demands for traceability and sustainability make ISCC Plus certification a strategic asset for manufacturers involved in biobased products. Find out more...

Read the article

Industry
ISO 21644: an essential framework for CSR analysis

ISO 21644: an essential framework for CSR analysis

EN ISO 21644 is an essential standard for ensuring the compliance and traceability of solid recovered fuels (SRF). But how can you be sure that your materials comply ...

Read the article

Industry
How to recognize adulterated honey

How to recognize adulterated honey

Honey adulteration is a growing threat to the industry, compromising quality, conformity and traceability. Addition of exogenous sugars, falsification of origin, purity tests ins...

Read the article

Request a quote