In order to examine composites and composite structures, it is necessary to be able to examine the structure of the composite and the layers, in particular their adhesion, distribution, and density.
For this purpose, test specimens are prepared and analyzed using microscopic methods in order to obtain a qualitative and quantitative description of the structure.
For preparation, test specimens are embedded and processed using grinding and polishing techniques.
Various tests can then be carried out on the prepared cross-section, such as layer thickness measurements, porosity, and defect analysis. In this way, important results regarding the structure, morphology, and boundary layer behavior of composite materials can be investigated and evaluated.

Device Configuration:

•  embedding options 
 −  hot embedding process  
 −  cold embedding process  
 −  UV embedding process  
 −  embedding process for microtomy (cuttable for plastics, fibers, etc.)  
 −  crack- and bubble-free embedding process 
•  etching for improved boundary behavior of layers and differentiation
•  option for preparation with sample recovery for further examination
•  grinding of a wide variety of materials, from high-hardness materials (steel, glass, ceramics) to flexible materials (fibers, fabrics), hybrid composites, and composites

Application Examples:

•  damage analysis (e.g., printed circuit board defects)
•  layer thickness determination (paints, chemical coatings)
•  material testing for defects (e.g., hybrid injection molding)
•  porosity analysis of materials • production of test specimens (e.g., for microtome sections)

Test Standard:

•  DIN EN ISO 1463
•  DIN 50600
•  DIN EN ISO 4499-1
•  ASTM B 665
•  ASTM B 657