Deformulation or Reverse Engineering of Consumer Products
When a product is available, it is better and faster to deformulate it rather than attempting to make a similar formula with only limited knowledge of the composition. In some cases, several trial and error formulations may be needed. After deformulation, we will provide a suggested method for making the product.
For deformulation, numerous analytical techniques are used: thin layer chromatography (TLC), gas chromatography/flame ionization detection (GC/FID), gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy (GC/MS), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), ion chromatography (IC), distillation, rotary evaporator concentration, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), ultraviolet/visible spectroscopy (UV/VIS), atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), induced coupled plasma (ICP), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), energy dispersion spectroscopy (EDS), x-ray diffraction (XRD), and many others.
All work is done on a best effort basis. All formulas developed are the property of the client. We will sign your or our non-disclosure agreement (NDA) form (See webpage). Deformulation of a very simple product can cost as little as $900.00 but very complex mixtures may require a retainer of $3000.00 or more.
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Formulation of a New Product
If we develop a new product based on our deformulation information, ideally only one or two trial formulas will be required but sometimes more are needed. A small trial batch of most formulas can be prepared for a fee of $200.00 to $600.00 depending on complexity and cost of ingredients. After a small batch is prepared and sent to the client for evaluation, we can recommend local firms which can make large production batches. We can also provide the MSDS for the product. If the product is novel, we can conduct a USPTO patent search, make a patent feasibility study, and write up the patent application (generally costing $3000.00). The patent can be assigned to the client since we give all rights to the client.