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Description
The National Laboratory Bul Rose Ltd., established in 2010 and holding the prestigious ISO/IEC 17025:2006 accreditation, stands as Bulgaria''s exclusive testing and calibration facility dedicated to essential oil analysis. With a robust financial position boasting a turnover of EUR 117,000 and a net profit of EUR 47,000 in 2018, the laboratory has positioned itself as a key player in the industry. This project undertakes a transformative approach by introducing cutting-edge equipment—a gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer (GC/MS) with a triple quadruple detector. The primary objective is to broaden the laboratory''s testing capabilities to encompass a new suite of analyses, focusing notably on the detection of pesticides within the chemical composition of essential oils.
This forward-looking initiative not only augments the laboratory''s technical prowess but also anticipates significant socio-economic benefits. The project is poised to create two new job opportunities, contributing directly to the local workforce and community. Furthermore, the anticipated expansion of testing services positions the National Laboratory Bul Rose Ltd. to attract new clients and extend its market reach beyond Bulgaria. This strategic move aligns with the laboratory''s overarching goal of enhancing competitiveness, as reflected in the innovative outcomes expected.
Summary of project results
The company faced several challenges due to the increasing environmental pollution and the intensive use of chemicals in modern agriculture. One of the most significant issues was the widespread presence of pesticides in agricultural products, including essential oils. These pesticides were subsequently transferred to end products such as food, cosmetics, perfumery, and medicines, posing considerable health risks to consumers.
Pesticides, encompassing a broad range of substances like herbicides, insecticides, nematicides, fungicides, and more, are inherently toxic. Their effects could vary from mild skin and eye irritation to severe health problems such as nervous system damage, hormonal disruptions leading to reproductive issues, and even cancer. This toxicity created significant public health concerns and heightened the need for vigilance and precision in detecting pesticide residues.
The company also faced the technical challenge of developing or adopting advanced detection methods to ensure the accurate identification of pesticides in the chemical composition of their products. This was particularly critical given the diverse applications of their products in sensitive industries like food, cosmetics, and medicine, where even trace amounts of contaminants could have serious consequences.
Moreover, regulatory pressures and consumer expectations for safer and more natural products added to the complexity. Meeting these expectations required investing in cutting-edge laboratory technologies and stringent quality control processes, which likely imposed financial and operational strains.
In summary, the challenges stemmed from the pervasive presence of pesticides in raw materials, the potential health risks associated with these chemicals, the necessity for precise detection, and the demand for compliance with safety standards and consumer preferences for clean products. Addressing these issues required a multi-faceted approach, combining innovation, rigorous testing, and a commitment to public health and safety.
The project successfully developed a comprehensive methodology for analyzing the composition, purity, and quality of essential oils. It enabled the Laboratory to accurately detect the presence of pesticides in the chemical composition of essential oils, ensuring the safety and compliance of these products.
Through its activities, the project significantly enhanced the analytical capabilities of the National Laboratory Bul Rose Ltd. It provided the Laboratory with the ability to serve a wider range of clients, extending beyond essential oil producers to include those requiring analysis of the purity and composition of various end-products such as food, cosmetics, and medicines. This broadened service capability positioned the Laboratory to address diverse client needs effectively.
One of the key achievements of the project was the development of precise and reliable test methods for analyzing the chemical composition of essential oils using different oil samples. These methods were supported by the acquisition and implementation of a state-of-the-art gas chromatograph /mass spectrometer (GC/MS) with a triple quadrupole detector. This advanced equipment played a crucial role in the project''s success, as it allowed the Laboratory to detect minute quantities of halogen-, nitrogen-, oxygen-, and sulfur-containing compounds with high sensitivity and selectivity. The GC/MS also provided highly accurate data on the quantities and qualities of essential oils, a critical factor for ensuring product purity and quality.
Within the scope of research and development activities, the Laboratory tested multiple probes, analyzed incoming readings, and compiled comprehensive data sets. These data were assessed for both quantity and quality, recorded, and transferred for secondary analysis. The Laboratory rigorously evaluated the results, comparing them to control substances to ensure precision and reliability.
The project also developed a complete set of contamination tests for essential oils, including tests for rare oil-producing herbs like cannabidiol, which is widely used in the production of cancer treatment medicines. Additionally, the Laboratory created analytical methods to test the purity and origin of essential oils, particularly Bulgarian Rose Oil. By mixing extracts from different plant types or plants sourced from various regions, the Laboratory assessed how these variations affected the quality of the product. These analyses provided critical insights into the authenticity and consistency of essential oil products.
The project achieved several notable results, significantly benefiting the National Laboratory Bul Rose Ltd. and its stakeholders.
Enhanced Analytical Capabilities: The delivery of innovative equipment, specifically the Gas Chromatograph/Mass Spectrometer (GC/MS), enabled the Laboratory to develop and commercialize a new set of precise tests. These tests allow for the accurate analysis of the chemical composition, purity, and quality of essential oils, including the detection of pesticides and other contaminants.
Increased Competitiveness: By offering advanced testing services, the Laboratory enhanced its competitive position in the market. These services addressed critical industry needs, such as ensuring the safety and authenticity of essential oils, making the Laboratory a trusted partner for quality assurance.
Expansion of Client Base and Market Reach: The project extended the Laboratory’s capacity, enabling it to attract new clients beyond the essential oils industry and cater to a broader range of sectors, including food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, the Laboratory strengthened its potential to compete in international markets, increasing its visibility and appeal abroad.
Job Creation and Economic Impact: The project directly contributed to economic growth by creating two new jobs, further supporting local employment and the Laboratory''s operational capacity.
Overall, the project’s results benefit both the Laboratory and its clients by delivering precise and reliable testing solutions, increasing competitiveness, and fostering growth in both domestic and international markets.