SEM and EDX Analysis

Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) combined with Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis (EDX), also referred to as Energy Dispersive Analysis (EDA) is a testing technique that provides detailed, high-resolution imaging and elemental information. SEM works by directing a finely focussed electron beam across the surface of a sample, producing secondary or backscattered electron signal. These signals generate intricate images of a sample's surface, while the EDX system simultaneously offers qualitative and quantitative elemental analysis.

As a dedicated SEM analysis laboratory Lucideon expertly applies these techniques to provide precise, reliable insights into materials and their composition.

High-Resolution Imaging Beyond Optical Microscopy

One of the most significant advantages of SEM analysis is its exceptional magnification capabilities. SEM provides magnifications up to approximately X50,000, allowing sub-micron features to be visualised in detail. This level of magnification goes far beyond what is possible with traditional optical microscopes, making our SEM analysis laboratory indispensable for exploring complex material structures and microscopic surface features that are otherwise hidden.

Key Advantages of SEM/EDX at an SEM Analysis Laboratory

• Rapid and High-Resolution Imaging: SEM delivers quick, high-quality images of a sample's surface
• Elemental Analysis with EDX: The EDX component allows for accurate identification of the chemical elements present within a sample. EDX can also perform quantitative compositional analysis, which is spatially resolved to user-defined areas of interest on the sample's surface
• Comprehensive Characterisation of Materials: SEM/EDX is invaluable for examining a variety of material properties, such as particle distribution, grain structure, and the presence of defects or contaminants
• Surface and Defect Analysis: The technique is especially useful for detecting and analysing surface defects, stains, and residues on materials like metals, glasses, ceramics, and polymers
• Cross-Sectional Imaging and Coating Thickness Measurement: SEM is also effective in measuring the thickness of coatings and layered structures. By cross-sectioning and polishing samples, SEM can accurately determine the thickness of metallised layers, oxide films, and other composite materials

Applications of SEM/EDX in Various Industries

The versatility of SEM/EDX makes it highly applicable across a wide range of industries. SEM analysis laboratories play a critical role in the following applications:

• Material Structure Characterisation: SEM/EDX is frequently employed to characterise the microstructure of materials, including the distribution of phases, grain boundaries, and crystal orientation
• Surface Defects and Degradation Mechanisms: The technique is highly effective for assessing surface defects, reaction interfaces, service environment effects, and the mechanisms by which materials degrade
• Layer Thickness Measurement: SEM can measure the thickness of various layers within a material, such as metallised layers, oxide films, or coatings, using cross-sectional imaging
• Contamination and Particulate Analysis: SEM/EDX is also an excellent tool for analysing particulate matter and contaminants, whether they are found on the surface or embedded within a material

Industries Benefiting from SEM/EDX Analysis

The powerful combination of SEM and EDX is widely used in a variety of sectors. Industries that regularly rely on SEM analysis laboratories include:

• Aerospace and Automotive: These industries utilise SEM/EDX for evaluating material performance, surface treatments, and investigating failure mechanisms
• Materials Science: Researchers in materials science use SEM/EDX for detailed analysis of new materials, coatings, composites, and alloy compositions
• Minerals and Ceramics: SEM/EDX is critical in the examination of mineral structures, glass properties, ceramic integrity, and the study of refractories
• Healthcare and Medical Devices: SEM is widely used to study biomaterials and the surfaces of medical implants, ensuring product quality and longevity