Debris and Contamination Analysis

We are able to examine and analyse metallic debris to help determine its origin. Our in-house equipment includes high-powered optical microscopes for categorising debris and measuring particle size and form. Detailed examination of particles to characterise their fractographic features and form can be conducted using the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). For larger samples, metallographic examination is available to establish the material's microstructure. Chemical analysis of the particles can be conducted using the Oxford Instruments Xplore Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) function of the SEM which can carry out semi-quantitative analysis of particles along with chemical mapping.

We can also determine the origin of non-metallic debris, through examination and analysis. Our in-house equipment includes high-powered optical microscopes for categorising the debris, measuring particle size and fibre thicknesses, along with colour and form. In addition to optical microscopy, we can conduct qualitative tests, such as determining the hardness or friability of particles using a stylus. Debris can be cleaned and graded using solvents, centrifuges and our ultrasonic bath for further analysis. Depending on the sample, techniques such as microscope FTIR using our Bruker Lumos 2 for polymeric samples and those with IR-absorbing properties, as well as EDS for elemental breakdowns would be used to help identify the origin.

In some instances, goods can be contaminated with material of biological origin such as fungal growths and bacteria. Working in collaboration with SureScreen Scientifics, we can assist in providing biological species identification for such contamination and identifying any health implications or potential damage implications for your materials.

Our team can assist with onsite visits to perform swabbing or collection of the biological material as well as in-house sample preparation of samples delivered to the laboratory. Together, microscopic visualisation, DNA analysis and Sanger sequencing can provide an overview of the likely contaminating organism (to species level where possible) and this is supported by detailed reporting outlining associated hazards.