Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-r

SEM is used to image fine details on metallic and organic materials. Coupled with an EDS detector, SEM can semi-quantitatively characterize elemental content on a selected area.  Cross-section samples can be utilized to better characterize samples.  These techniques are excellent for metals testing.

FTIR analysis is used to identify and characterize unknown organic and inorganic materials.  FTIR spectra are compared to a library of thousands of reference spectra to aid in the identification of the unknown.  Polymer testing and identification are among the most common analysis with FTIR.  Solids, liquids and sample extracts can be analyzed.

 The VHX-X1F Keyence digital microscope is capable of fully focused depth imaging, large area stitching, 3D surface profile, metallography, microstructure analysis, weld geometry, coating analysis, and more. The microscope includes the metal structure and particle analysis module which allows for efficient and accurate grain size and particulate analyses, and porosity as well.  This is a powerful tool for failure analysis and sample inspection.

GC-MS is used for the analysis of volatile and semi-volatile organic materials.  Mass spectra are then compared to a digital NIST library with reference spectra to aid in the identification of unknown compounds.  Materials can then be quantified with reference standards.

HPLC is used for the analysis of non-volatile organic materials.  Analytes are separated, identified qualitatively and can be quantified.  Common HPLC analysis we have performed is energetic material stabilizer studies, polymer additive analysis (anti-oxidants and UV stabilizers), cosmetic, pharmaceutical and dietary supplement analysis.

TGA can be used to determine the weight-% inorganic loading in polymers, degradation temperature, and weight-% mass loss at various temperatures of solid samples.

DSC is commonly used to determine the melting point and glass transition temperature of polymeric samples.  Cure studies, boiling point determination, and oxidative induction time (OIT) are other common DSC applications.

The FLIR T660  thermal imaging camera is a non-contact inspection tool that allows users to safely assess the temperature of surfaces in the range of -40°C to 2,000°C with an accuracy of up to ±1˚C or ±1% of reading.