Material Characterization
Microscopy, SEM with EDS, XRD and related techniques that reveal a material’s structure and composition.
Sample Preparation & Processing
Cutting, mounting, grinding, polishing and etching to prepare specimens for testing and microscopy.
Reliable results start with a properly prepared specimen. We prepare samples for microscopy, hardness testing and mechanical tests.
What the Test Evaluates
- A flat, scratch-free surface for microscopy and micro hardness
- Specimens cut to the dimensions a test standard requires
Why It Matters
Poor preparation can damage or hide the features being examined. Careful cutting, mounting and polishing ensures that what is seen under the microscope represents the material.
Common Applications
- Metallographic specimens for micro examination
- Mounted samples for micro hardness testing
- Test specimens cut from plates, laminates and components
Available Methods
- Sectioning and cutting
- Cold-setting mounting
- Hot-press mounting and polishing
- Grinding, polishing and etching
- FRP test specimen cutting
- EDM wire cutting
- Water jet cutting
- TEM sample preparation
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are samples mounted before polishing?
Mounting in resin protects the edges of the sample and gives a regular shape that can be held flat during grinding and polishing.
How large a sample can be mounted?
Hot-press mounting is offered for samples within about 25 × 25 × 10 mm. For other sizes, please ask.
Related Services
Hardness Testing
Micro Vickers, Brinell, Rockwell and Shore hardness measurements for metals and polymers.
Mechanical Testing
Tensile, compression, flexural, shear and impact tests that show how a material behaves under load.
Have a Material Testing Requirement?
Tell us about your sample and testing objective, and our team will help you decide the appropriate next step.