Materials science spans the study of all material classes—metals, polymers, ceramics, composites, and advanced materials. Scanning electron microscopy is the cornerstone analytical technique for understanding structure-property relationships, from microstructure to nanoscale features.

The SNE-Alpha desktop SEM delivers the resolution and analytical capabilities that materials scientists need without the footprint or complexity of floor-model systems. With 5nm resolution and integrated EDS capability, you can image surface morphology, analyze microstructure, and determine elemental composition all in one instrument.

Key Materials Science Applications

• Failure Analysis: Investigate fracture surfaces, corrosion, fatigue cracks, and manufacturing defects. BSE imaging reveals compositional variations while EDS identifies contaminants
• Microstructure Analysis: Characterize grain size, phase distribution, and crystallographic features. Essential for understanding mechanical properties and processing effects
• Coating and Surface Analysis: Measure coating thickness, evaluate adhesion, and inspect surface treatments. Cross-sectional imaging reveals layer structure
• Polymer Characterization: Examine polymer morphology, blend compatibility, filler distribution, and degradation mechanisms
• Composite Materials: Analyze fiber-matrix interfaces, void content, and damage mechanisms critical for aerospace and automotive applications
• Quality Control: Routine inspection of incoming materials, in-process components, and finished products for specification compliance

Material Classes

The SNE-Alpha handles the full range of materials:

• Metals and Alloys: Steels, aluminum, titanium, superalloys, and precious metals
• Polymers: Thermoplastics, thermosets, elastomers, and polymer blends
• Ceramics: Oxides, carbides, nitrides, and glass materials
• Composites: Carbon fiber, glass fiber, metal matrix, and ceramic matrix composites
• Coatings: Thermal barrier coatings, hard coatings, corrosion protection, and thin films