Search Results for 3D elemental analysis

Optimizing the integrity and performance of highly engineered surfaces and structures requires the ability to visualize and understand material behavior over multiple length and time scales from a three-dimensional perspective. The Electron Microscopy Centre at the University of Manchester is equipped for such work as demonstrated in problem-solving scenarios involving multiscale imaging and analysis of the progression of intergranular corrosion in Al alloy 2024, the catalytic effect of silver nanoparticles in seawater, recrystallization in a volume element of a bronze alloy, and defect progression on graphene surfaces.

Two case studies highlight the strengths and weaknesses between traditional metallurgical techniques and 3D micro-computed tomography, as well as the interplay between the two.

This article describes the development of applications of phosphate-based materials and characterizes five non-apatite phosphate minerals using 3D optical profilometry. The results reveal the suitability of these materials for new uses in energy storage and conversion as well as medical applications.

This article explains how SEM, TEM, and atom probe tomography are being used in the development of additively manufactured high-entropy alloys (HEAs), revealing critical features such as anisotropic microstructure and metallurgical defects. It also discusses ongoing efforts to improve the predictability and analysis of HEA microstructure using data-driven approaches.

Computer modeling is used in the design and development stages of induction hardening to optimize the process and to improve component quality including hardness, beneficial stress distributions, and reduced distortion.

From graphene to next-generation composites to 3D printing, advanced materials and processes are helping sportswear manufacturers, sporting goods companies, and sports medicine practitioners take their game to the next level. This special report reviews some of the most innovative technologies making an impact on today’s sports and recreation industry. Technologies addressed include graphene used in sportswear, new production methods for carbon fiber composites, and 3D printed implants to address knee injuries.

As high-entropy alloys become more complex in terms of microstructure, phase stability, and intermetallics, the advent of sophisticated analytical instruments is helping scientists to develop new materials with the most desirable properties. The analysis techniques described in this article include electron energy loss spectroscopy, electron probe microanalysis, atom probe tomography, and x-ray absorption spectroscopy.

A mixed-reality application called HoloMicroscope helps microscopists make decisions and analyze data efficiently while using transmission electron microscopes. In the context of materials research, using mixed reality augments a user’s interaction by allowing them to see a TEM column and its control panels, while also interacting with three-dimensional holograms that are projected into their field of view. Introduction of mixed reality into a data-intensive research workflow could help accelerate scientific discovery. This article provides background about technology and a case study in its use.

The rapidly increasing complexity of microelectronic devices is necessitating the use of sophisticated imaging tools to analyze and correct defects. This article describes advanced analytical techniques in use at the Fraunhofer Center for Applied Microstructure Diagnostics.

As N95 masks are in short supply and high demand, reusable, sterilizable metal filters for masks built using 3D microstructural characterization and simulation methods are a promising alternative.

The rapid ability of next-generation EDS detectors to characterize beam sensitive materials is leading to breakthroughs in nanoparticle research.

Developments in titanium technology and opportunities for increased use in several markets were highlighted at the 13th World Conference on Titanium. This article reviews some of the key technical topics covered at the conference, including new alloy development and innovative characterization methods.

As powder-based additive manufacturing (AM) processes continue to mature, reliable powder characterization techniques will be key to optimizing both AM processes and final part performance. This article describes advanced metals for assessing powder properties and their influence on AM processing and part performance.

Wavelength-dependent or hyperspectral imaging is a novel nondestructive characterization technique in the field of neutron radiography and computed tomography. A dedicated facility named VENUS is currently being built at Oak Ridge National Laboratory to provide these characterization capabilities for academia, industry, and other national laboratories. This feature article describes the VENUS capabilities for materials science and engineering, provides a quick overview of the modes of access of the facility, and illustrates the nondestructive measurements and interpretation of results.

A microscale fatigue testing technique for characterizing mechanical response and relating it to microstructure promises to improve fatigue life prediction for turbine engine components.

Beyond automotive, aerospace, and medical materials innovations, research and development of advanced materials and processes for sports and recreation activities is one of the most exciting areas for today’s materials scientists and engineers. This article compiles examples of materials innovations in equipment for cycling, ice skating, cricket, running, football, sailing, and fishing.

This article discusses the capabilities of two software tools, one optimized for design the other for FEA, and explains how they work together to optimize airframe structures incorporating metallic and composite components.

This case study details the noninvasive analysis of an 5000-year-old silver figurine from Iran, now in the collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art. The The object of this study, a figure of a kneeling bull clothed in a robe with a stepped linear pattern and holding up a spouted vessel, is composed of 15 pieces of worked silver joined together with silver solder. The aim of the study is to apply noninvasive micro-xray fluorescence spectroscopy (μ-XRF) analysis to characterize the silver alloy compositions and compare the new data with previously obtained results from invasive chemical analyses of samples performed by thermal neutron activation.

In Germany, the Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM) is addressing challenges in the implementation of additive manufacturing on the industrial landscape for safety-critical applications. This article provides an overview of BAM’s activities in additive manufacturing with a focus on safety (both for applications and the environment) and AM technology innovation for a wide range of materials and manufacturing locations.

Recent advances in neutron sources and detector technologies enable new contrast mechanisms to determine crystalline information for metal components. This new capability can help validate emerging additive manufacturing processes used to produce parts with complex geometries.