Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Technology and Advanced Materials IFAM
Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Technology and Advanced Materials IFAM

Elemental Analysis (CHNS, ONH) - Precise material analysis

CHNS elemental analyzer in the Fraunhofer IFAM research lab in Dresden
© Fraunhofer IFAM Dresden

Elemental analysis is a key method in chemical analytics used for the quantitative determination of carbon (C), hydrogen (H), nitrogen (N), oxygen (O) and sulfur (S) in solid materials. At Fraunhofer IFAM Dresden, elemental analysis is performed using highly precise CHNS and ONH analytical methods.

The analyses are suitable for metallic and ceramic materials, powders, and other inorganic solids. Typical applications include quality control, materials development, failure analysis, and research and development projects in both industrial and scientific contexts. The generated analytical data provide a reliable basis for evaluating chemical composition and material properties.

CHNS elemental analyzer in the Fraunhofer IFAM research lab in Dresden
© Fraunhofer IFAM Dresden
CHNS elemental analyzer in the Fraunhofer IFAM research lab in Dresden
© Fraunhofer IFAM Dresden
CHNS elemental analyzer in the Fraunhofer IFAM research lab in Dresden
© Fraunhofer IFAM Dresden

Principle of Elemental Analysis (CHNS and ONH Methods)

CS

In CHNS elemental analysis, the sample is combusted in a pure oxygen stream. The resulting gases are detected and quantified using non-dispersive infrared spectroscopy (NDIR). This method enables the precise determination of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen and sulfur contents.

Measuring device: CS844 from LECO

Accreditation according to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025:2018

ONH

For the determination of oxygen, nitrogen and hydrogen, the ONH method is applied. The sample is heated in a graphite crucible under an inert gas atmosphere. The released gases are analyzed using calibrated detection systems. Both methods ensure high accuracy and reproducibility, even at low concentration levels.

Measuring device: ONH836 from LECO

Accreditation according to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025:2018 (The determination of hydrogen is not subject to accreditation but is carried out using an in-house procedure.)

Applications of Elemental Analysis

Elemental analysis is used for a wide range of applications, including:

  • chemical characterization of metals, ceramics and inorganic materials
  • quality control in industrial production
  • detection of impurities and trace elements
  • materials development and process optimization
  • research and development in materials science

The combination of advanced analytical instrumentation and extensive expertise allows for reliable analysis of complex material systems.

Measurement Range and Accuracy

Elemental analysis covers a broad measurement range, from a few parts per million (ppm) up to high percentage contents, depending on the element and sample matrix. Typical accuracies reach better than 1 ppm or relative standard deviations of ≤ 0.5 %. All analyses are conducted under controlled laboratory conditions and according to established quality standards.

FAQ – Elemental Analysis

What is elemental analysis?
Elemental analysis is an analytical technique used to quantitatively determine specific chemical elements within a material. It is widely applied in materials science and industrial analytics.

Which elements can be analyzed?
The standard elemental analysis includes carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur (C, H, N, O, S).

Which sample types are suitable for elemental analysis?
Typical samples include metals, ceramics, powders and other inorganic solids. Oxygen- and moisture-sensitive samples can be handled under inert atmosphere conditions.

How accurate is elemental analysis?
Depending on the element and analytical method, accuracies in the low ppm range can be achieved. The methods are designed for precise quantitative determination.

What are typical applications of elemental analysis?
Elemental analysis is commonly used in quality control, materials development, failure analysis and research and development projects.

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