Specialized Techniques

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Rancimat test measure?

The Rancimat test measures the oxidative stability of oils, fats and fat-containing products by accelerating oxidation under controlled heat and airflow and detecting the onset of rapid oxidation (the "induction period"). A longer induction period indicates better resistance to rancidity and a longer expected shelf life.

What products is Rancimat testing used for?

Rancimat is used for vegetable oils, animal fats, biodiesel, and any formulation where lipid oxidation affects shelf life or performance — including food products, cosmetic oils and antioxidant efficacy studies that compare stability with and without a candidate antioxidant.

What is freeze-drying (lyophilization) used for?

Freeze-drying removes water from a material by freezing it and then subliming the ice directly to vapor under vacuum, at low temperature. It preserves materials that would degrade under heat-based drying — biologics, sensitive actives, microorganisms and formulations requiring long-term stability without refrigeration.

Does freeze-drying change a material's chemical composition?

Properly controlled lyophilization is designed to preserve chemical and structural integrity — that is its purpose, as an alternative to heat-based drying methods that can degrade sensitive compounds. Formulation (cryoprotectants, buffer) and cycle parameters are optimized per material to avoid damage during freezing or drying.

Which lab performs Rancimat and freeze-drying services in Brazil?

Percevia is a Brazilian analytical laboratory based in São Paulo, offering Rancimat oxidative stability testing and freeze-drying (lyophilization) as outsourced services for pharmaceutical, cosmetics and food-adjacent companies.