Microscopy lab laboratories with MicroVision Laboratories
Eds analysis providers in Chelmsford, MA? ?We partner with companies in all phases of product development and sales, including R&D, manufacturing, QC, advertising and failure analysis. Our laboratory offers a highly-trained and experienced staff utilizing a powerful set of analytical tools (SEM with EDS and backscatter detectors, Bruker X-Flash elemental mapping, X-Ray imaging, Micro-FTIR spectroscopy, Micro-XRF, light microscopy, cross sectioning/precision polishing and microhardness testing).
Also, the color EDS map highlights the iron particles in the mineral filled PVC floor. These iron particles were concentrated in areas were the tile showed signs of impact which indicated some metallic object impacted the tile leaving behind small particles and over time the materials oxidized which created darker spots in the tile. The data indicated that a significant portion of the dust was from the insulation in the attic. The contractor had replaced a portion of duct work running to the master bedroom. During this replacement, fiberglass insulation was knocked into the ducting. The small glass insulation fibers were spread through the AC ducts and settling out of the air throughout the house. The client was relieved to know what was causing their skin irritation and the significant dust build up. Using the results garnered from the analysis from MicroVision Labs they were able to have the contractor clean out the duct work and act to prevent further spread of the insulation fibers and properly clean up the settled dust in the house that was the cause of the homeowner’s skin irritation. Read a few extra info at edx analysis.
The client was contacted with the results, and was curious as to what the source of these particles might be. After consulting with the office manager, it was determined that some pieces of furniture present had relatively significant amounts of direct water exposure, and were subsequently dried a number of times during remittance construction. Inspection of these pieces of furniture showed that they had high density, close packed foam cushions of a type similar to the particles observed in the surrounding area, which had been broken down by the repeated wet/dry cycle.
What if I want a service not listed in your services list? At MicroVision Labs the list of services which we provide to our clients is constantly growing. So if you don’t see what you are looking for give us a call or use the Contact Us tab. Also don’t forget to check our Additional Services Page to see if it might be listed there. Can you identify a contamination or unknown for us? Yes, we call that an Unknown Material ID and we routinely work on that kind of project. We have a number of individual tests designed to classify unknown materials. When combined with our extensive suite of equipment, these tests allow us to identify virtually any material. Give us a call and talk to one of our knowledgeable staff for more information.
Translucent or transparent coatings on metallic or semi-conductor substrates are very difficult to image due to their reflective nature. Nomarski/DIC imaging is an effective method for accentuating differences in thickness, density or the optical index in these cases. This analysis enhances and highlights subtle features with brilliant color gradients and captures them with a high resolution digital imaging system. Let us bring out your sample’s hidden features. See additional info on here.
As indicated in the FTIR spectral comparison below, the suspect material showed a near perfect match for acetylsalicylic acid. Additionally, there was a small amount of dibasic phosphate present. It was determined that the material was likely acetylsalicylic acid with a phosphate binder – an aspirin. Therefore, from this analysis the suspect material in the bottle was likely a household aspirin tablet, broken apart and separated by the water. In order to confirm the identification, a few aspirin tablets from several common manufacturers were obtained, roughly ground, and soaked to allow for comparison. The optical morphology of the crystals, size range of the particles, association with the phosphate and FTIR spectrum all were consistent with the original suspect material. A report detailing the methods and findings in full narrative form was rendered to the client.