Researchers from Bremen provided us with this interesting sample of volcanic ash, which we analyzed with our Coxem Tabletop SEM-EDX. In addition to the spongy structure of the fine ash particles typical of volcanic eruptions, we identified various microfossils, so-called diatoms.
The determination of the technical cleanliness according to VDA-19.1 or ISO-16232 is now an integral part of quality control and error analysis - because the cleanliness of components is decisive for the quality and error-free function of the product. In addition to particles, filmic contamination poses a problem, as the following example from quality assurance in the manufacture of electric drive systems shows.
Employees from the wood engineering department (Abteilung Holzingenieurwesen) sent us an aged wood sample with a typical discoloration. Using our Coxem scanning electron microscope, we imaged the microstructure in high resolution and performed an elemental analysis of the discoloration.
In order to answer the question of the whereabouts of microplastic particles from tire abrasion, new analysis methods are urgently needed to reliably identify and count these particles. We conducted a pilot study to test the possibilities of automated SEM-EDX analysis in quantifying tire abrasion in environmental samples.
In response to many requests from our customers, we have developed a guide to help buyers choose a suitable system with practical advice and technical information.
When it comes to component cleanliness, the hardest particles cause the most damage. The difficulty, however, is finding these killer particles because they can be so small that they cannot be seen with a light microscope.
A central requirement in the production of pharmaceutical products is the avoidance of visible foreign particles. Our testing laboratory has developed innovative yet simple methods to reliably quantify foreign particles in pharmaceutical powders.
The identification of metallic particles is an important requirement in cleanliness analysis. In recent years, the light-optical detection of metallic particles has commonly been performed by the means of gloss. On the basis of our laboratory experience, we have found that the light microscopic analysis often leads to incorrect typifications, which can be easily avoided by a material analysis using SEM-EDX.
The Korean company Coxem has developed economical tabletop devices for SEM-EDX analysis that impress with excellent resolution. This new product series is now also available in Germany via RJL Micro & Analytic. Customers benefit from our proven support and technical service.
