Your Partner in Failure Analysis and Investigative Chemistry

We specialize in determining the root cause of failure in metal and polymer components from any industry. Past analyses have included plumbing assemblies, medical devices, aircraft engine components, beverage containers, fire sprinkler pipe, and corroded hog feeders - just to name a few examples.

We utilize a wide range of analytical techniques to evaluate the composition, condition, and surface chemistry of fibers, raw materials, and finished products made from metals, polymers, elastomers, composites, and natural materials. Every project is unique. We work with our clients to identify a streamlined test protocol that will allow us to cost-effectively answer the questions at hand, without performing unnecessary testing. Whether the scope is as simple as determining the bulk chemistry of a metal or polymer or as complex as performing chemical compatibility studies under conditions of stress, we can help!

Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (FTIR) is used to characterize organic materials and help to identify contaminants. Our FTIR is equipped with a microscope to satisfy your most challenging microscopic particle analyses.

The Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) is used to evaluate fracture features and to examine fracture fracture origins for defects, contaminants, pitting, crazing, and surface discontinuities that may have contributed to the failure. The SEM also allows us to evaluate the size, distribution, and adhesion of filler materials, reinforcement fibers, impact modifiers, etc. Samples are inspected using a large chambered, variable pressure SEM with Energy Dispersive X-Ray spectroscopy (EDX). Samples may be examined in the secondary electron imaging mode or the back-scattered electron imaging mode, and non-conductive samples can be examined without sputter coating.

A wide range of additional analytical services is available to help answer your most challenging material analysis questions.

Examples of Analytical Services Offered:

• Metallography
• Stereomicroscopy with digital imaging
• Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC)
• Inductively Coupled Plasma Spectrometry (ICP)
• Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry
• Surface Chemistry Analyses (ESCA/XPS, TOF-SIMS)
• Material Compatibility Testing
• Microbiologically-Induced Degradation Analyses
• Hardness testing for Metals and Polymers
• Rubber Analyses
• Molecular Weight Determination
• Alloy Chemistry Determination
• Contaminant Identification
• Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA)
• Mechanical Testing
• Accelerated Weathering and Aging Studies

When necessary, we provide expert testimony and technical support for product liability litigation.