Materials Lab - SEM & EDS Services

At HEM, we combine SEM-EDS, microFTIR/ATR, and other techniques for polymer analysis towards failure analysis, contamination, identification, etc. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis of plastics and polymers is a valuable technique for studying the microstructure, morphology, and surface characteristics of these materials. EDS is often coupled with SEM to perform elemental analysis and find the chemical composition. Micro FT-IR /ATR analysis is valuable for identifying the molecular bonds and structures of the polymers, their degradation, and bonding changes. Polymer samples are in-house inspected and often sputtered with a gold or carbon film to increase their conductivity under SEM imaging.

We have extensive experience in polymer analysis for quality investigations, supply check, failure analysis, and new polymer formulation R&D.

Applications of SEM Analysis for Plastics and Polymers:

• Quality Control: Manufacturers use SEM to inspect polymer products for defects, surface irregularities, and contamination.
• Material Characterization: Researchers study the microstructure and morphology of polymers to understand their properties and behavior.

Elemental Mapping:

EDS can generate elemental maps, showing the spatial distribution of elements within the polymer. This is useful for identifying impurities, additives, or inclusions.

Styrene or Plastic Pellets

FT-IR Spectra

Plastics and Polymers are organic materials:

FT-IR is necessary for the identification of organic materials. The spectra is compared to a database.

SEM Topography shows contamination in PVC

Morphology of PVC (Plastic)

Topographical Analysis of Plastics

SEM analysis shows the structures and morphology, and causes of failure of the pvc.

Identifying the Characteristics of Plastics and Polymers

With our sofisticated equipment and expertise, we can help to identify the characteristics of plastics and polymers by examination of the material at the micron level. Whether it is organic or inorganic, using the scanning electron microscope, eds, ft-ir, and micro-ft-ir.

We get answers
281.888.4261