Microscopy: expertise description

Microscopy is the most direct method to investigate the real space morphology of materials. The morphology of materials is crucial to the understanding of structure property relations and with the available microscopical methods we investigate samples of all origins, ranging from application test samples to powders and from colloidal latices to plastic films. We are able to visualise features (i.e. defects, blend phases, nano particles,…) ranging from several mm (macroscopic scale) down to tenths of nanometers (atomic scale). We do not only perform microscopy on polymeric materials but we can also assist in the solution of problems in other areas such as catalysis, life sciences, plant support,…). We do not restrict ourselves solely to the visualisation of the morphology but consider it as our task to do this in terms of structure- mechanical property relations and aimed at problem solving for our clients.

Techniques

Transmission Electron Microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy
Electron Diffraction (complementary to WAXS)
EDX element Microanalysis , Image Analysis
Atomic Force Microscopy, Scanning Tunneling Microscopy
Polarised Optical Microscopy
Phase Contrast Optical Microscopy
Differential Interference Contrast
Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy
Fluorescence Microscopy, Reflected Optical Microscopy

Applications

Support of Material Development and Application Development
Support of Technical Field Service
Support of Catalyst Research
Analysis of additives Blends & Compounds Morphology
Support of Melapur Support of field service of PP, PE, ….
Study of deformation of semi crystalline morphology
Fractography / determination of origin of application failure
Crystal morphology of Aspartame
Glass fibre length distribution in GRTP compounds and composites
Forensic research for claims
Multy layer plastic film