Investigation

A lot of textile with a pungent smell was submitted for inspection. Employees became nauseous during the unloading of a container. Classic analysis did not provide a definite answer on the identity of the chemicals. A specific protocol was developed for taking and analysing a sample of air. Subsequently, an analysis was carried out via GC/MS. All components were identified. The pungent smell was attributed to a series of chemicals that were added exogenously to prevent the formation of bacteria.

A number of lots were supplied that could have been exposed to smoke deposition and water during a company fire. The question was asked which lots could still be used and which ones could not. On the basis of a specific protocol, a number of typical fire markers were identified in damaged bags. These markers were not found in undamaged bags.

In a first series of investigations with toys, inexplicable overruns were measured each time. On the basis of a detailed investigation, we assessed which chemicals were responsible for the measured increases.

A study into the cause of yellowing goods exposed to the air in a warehouse. The study focused on the identification of the yellowing as well as the composition of the air.

Import containers with shoes were a major cause of overruns. However, a shoe consists of several parts that often come from various suppliers. In order to pass judgement on which supplier did not meet the agreements regarding the use of glues and solvents, a study was carried out in which the composition of each part of an individual shoe was examined.