Applications
Practical applications of surface analysis
Surface science can provide solutions for an incredibly diverse range of requirements. CMSS staff have expertise in the following areas, and a group of specialists can be assembled to address your areas of need. Use our online form to submit your requests.
Industry applications of surface analysis
- R&D for improved processing technologies
- Quality control in manufacturing
- Environmental issues
- Forensic investigations
Adhesion science
- Analysis of surfaces prior to application of adherent
- Correlation of adhesion with surface cleanliness
- Bond failure location
- Quality control of coating production processes
Metallurgy and mineral sciences
- Elemental distributions on mineral particle surfaces
- Oxide growth studies
- Elemental diffusion in metallic matrices
- Intergranular and transgranular studies of fracture
Electronics and microelectronics
- Film analysis and thickness determinations
- Chemical distribution of species and within the film
- Chemical mapping of surface structures
- Study of diffusion processes
- Study of dopants
Polymers, papers and packaging
- Chemical state identification and mapping at polymer surfaces and interfaces
- Analysis of surface treatments for enhanced printability
- Investigation of de-inking and recycling processes
Corrosion science
- Investigation of the interactions of metal surfaces with the surroundings
- Studies of the breakdown of protective surface coatings and treatments
- Identification of passivating layers
- Determination of thin film growth or depletion rates
- Depth profiles of corroded materials
Catalysis
- Identification of catalyst poisons
- Comparison of fresh and spent catalysts
- Quality control in catalyst production
Fibre science
- Imaging of cellulose fibres in paper
- Studies of surface treatments of textiles, for example wool, cotton, synthetics
- Cohesion of fibre reinforced composites
- Investigation of chemical reactions at the surface of hair
