Particle Characterization with Electron Microscopy

Hard particles like silicon dioxide (SiO2) or corundum can increase the wear rate of your product. Perception Software can analyze and identify the particles that are released during the washing process. The software can detect the amount and type of particles present and compare it to the preset cleanliness specifications. If no harmful particles are found, the product meets the cleanliness standards.

Particle analysis is crucial in steel manufacturing, and directly influences the mechanical properties and overall quality of steel products. Precise identification and quantification of inclusions and contaminants in steel can prevent defects, improve material strength, and ensure compliance with industry standards. This ultimately enhances the safety and reliability of steel components.  

Microscale inclusions are found in alloys of steel, aluminum, and other metals. In steel, the proportions of oxides and sulfides reflect the high-temperature refining conditions. In aluminum, tramp iron and alloyed heavy metals combine to form intermetallic compounds. In both cases, the composition and size distribution of these microscale particles impact final product properties including strength, ductility, and fatigue life. Process and product development require understanding micro cleanliness, and automated SEM-EDS is the gold standard for identifying inclusions in metal.

The quality of parts produced by additive manufacturing is highly dependent on the powder. Differences in size, shape, and contaminants affect the final printed product. Perception Software can find and identify debris, spherical or elongated particles, and other particles, proving the quality of the powder.

Gunshot residue analysis is important for determining if a firearm was used in a crime. Traditional GSR analysis uses a scanning electron microscope (SEM), to scan the sample and locate suspect GSR particles.  Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) technique is then used to identify the elements in that particle.   At crimes scenes, investigators use particle analysis to determine if a person or firearm was involved in the incident.  The presence of lead, barium and antimony can confirm that the sample originated from a gunshot and provides supporting evidence in the investigation.