Microhardness testing company in the USA in 2021? Scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive xray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) was used to identify the particles. The SEM showed an elevated concentration of iron and iron oxide in the impacted areas. The backscatter electron (BSE) image which correlates brightness in the image with atomic density, highlighted the iron particles that were embedded in the tile and the EDS spectrum confirms the PLM Image chemical composition of these higher density particles.
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.
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.
MicroVision Laboratories, Inc. has been providing businesses, consultants and other testing laboratories with expert microscopy and analytical services since 2003. Our client base covers a broad spectrum of industries including semi-conductors, aerospace, electronics, biomedical, ceramics, optics, pharmaceuticals, mineralogy, metallurgy, thin films, environmental, membranes filtration and industrial hygiene. Read additional info on Microvision labs services.
How do I submit a sample or a set of samples? To submit a sample or set of samples, please see the page How to Submit Samples. What if I believe my samples are hazardous? We are not equipped to handle or dispose of every kind of hazardous material. Please call us before sending in any potentially hazardous samples. In cases where we are able to analyze your harzardous samples we may not be able to dispose of them and therefore we will return them to you.
SEM allows for high magnification surface examinations of a wide variety of samples. Providing brilliant resolution as well as incredible depth of field, the SEM, especially when combined with EDS, is often considered the most powerful analytical tool of our time. Let us show you why. X-ray imaging allows us to look inside of a device without opening it up. This real-time nondestructive inspection technique can be used on packaged electronic devices to one of a kind ancient artifacts. With rapid image acquisition and high sample throughput, X-ray imaging is particularly useful for sample screening and quality control issues. It is also often the first step in failure analysis and polished cross section projects. Explore additional info at https://microvisionlabs.com/.
