Microhardness testing company in Chelmsford
Eds testing laboratories by MicroVision Laboratories? SEM is a powerful surface microscopy method which allows for high resolution images to be obtained on a wide range of samples. A focused beam of electrons sweeps across a sample surface and an image is created from the scattered electrons. The electron beam allows for the accurate imaging of features below the resolution limit of visible light. The acquired pictures retain good depth of field, resulting in excellent three-dimensional images. Variations in beam parameters can be made in order to highlight variations in density in the target sample, show extremely fine surface features, and illustrate texture in sample surface coatings. MicroVision Labs has multiple fully-operational SEMs, Bruker X-Flash EDS detectors and mapping technology, backscatter electron (BSE) imaging, and large chamber capabilities. These provide a full suite of microscopy services for all of your analytical needs.
Approach: MicroVision Labs’ staff consulted with the client, and determined that, unfortunately, there could be a number of potential sources of a white material. Even before the bottle with the suspended material arrived, it was determined that there was less than 50 mL of water remaining, and likely less than a gram of material suspended in the water. The client was aware that this material could represent precipitated minerals from the source water, a polymer residue from the bottles, some form of biological tissue that might have formed despite sterilization procedures, or could very well represent some completely unforeseen foreign material. The issue facing the client is how to have the material tested, as most tests that they might request for one or the other of these known potential sources would destroy or alter the sample. Choosing a test was therefore something of a gamble, because if they tested for calcium (mineral precipitate) and it came up negative – that didn’t actually tell them what the powder was, just that it didn’t have any calcium. Based on this conversation, the non-destructive, specialized testing at MicroVision Laboratories was chosen as the best choice.
Close examination of any possible defects or voids was undertaken at higher magnification. The voids did not appear to create any structural or conductivity issues. Additionally, the formation and contiguity of intermetallic bonds between the contacts and solder were shown using a combination of EDS line scan elemental spectroscopy and elemental mapping. The SEM image and the EDS map to the left show the intermetallic layer between the copper wire and the tin/lead solder via the mixture of the red copper and the blue tin.
What is your standard turnaround time (TAT) and can it be expedited? Our standard TAT is 5 to 10 business days. We can provide faster TATs on request with the following surcharges: – Same day to 24 hour rush is 100% surcharge – 2 day rush is 75% surcharge – 3 day rush is 50% surcharge – 4 day rush is 25% surcharge Rush requests must have prior approval otherwise we cannot guarantee turnaround times. Read more info at https://microvisionlabs.com/service/elemental-mapping/.
Dust samples were analyzed using polarized light microscopy (PLM) to provide percentages of the particle types present in the samples. MVL was able to determine that there was significant loading of glass fibers in the dust samples with the likely source being contractor’s work in the attic which involved disturbing the fiberglass insulation. The image on the right shows a few distinct glass fibers with a binder material adhered to them, consistent with fiberglass insulation.
?MicroVision Labs is owned and operated by a career microscopist, John Knowles, who understands the needs of our clients. Our emphasis on helping our clients solve problems, not just providing data, sets us apart from other labs. We have the technology and knowledge to find answers to your most difficult challenges, helping you succeed at every step. Can I come in to see my samples analyzed? Yes, our clients are always welcome to come in while their samples are being analyzed. For much of the work we do, it is mutually beneficial for our clients to be present to help direct their project since they can provide expertise about their samples. Some of the services we provide such as polished cross sections have time consuming steps making it impractical for a client to stay to watch everything. In those cases it is recommended that you come in initially to explain what you need done and come back at a later time to see the finished product. Explore a few extra details at https://microvisionlabs.com/.
