The failure of polymer materials often is caused by the use of the wrong raw materials or the inhomogeneous distribution of the used components inside the polymer material. This failure not only leads to defects in the appearance and function of the polymer material, but also affects the normal use of the material. Failure analysis is a key analytical field that can improve the profitability and efficiency of polymer products and facilitate the development and optimization of polymer materials. Alfa Chemistry has the ability to measure the properties and characteristics of polymers by physical or chemical methods to infer the real cause of product failure.
Failure analysis determines root cause for polymer materials failure, providing solutions for failure related problems. Our analysis projects include, but are not limited to the following.
| ● Analysis of contaminants and inclusions in polymers | ● Oxidative degradation of polymers | ● Weathering of polymers |
| ● Environmental stress cracking of polymers | ● Residual stresses and weld lines in polymers | ● Odour, tainting and outgassing problems of polymers |
| ● Adhesion problems with polymers and interfaces | ● Voids, blisters, and various surface defects | ● Discoloration of polymers |
| ● Mechanical failure of polymers | ● Chemical attack of polymers | …. |
Alfa Chemistry's cutting-edge analysis laboratory is equipped with a dedicated technical platform to provide you with failure analysis services. Our analytical techniques are mainly as follows.
● Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)
SEM is one of the common methods for characterizing the microstructure and morphology of the materials. The electrons interact with atoms in the sample, producing various signals that contain information about the surface topography and composition of the sample. Analysis of polymer materials by SEM helps to examine various polymer defects, identify the presence of inorganic components or contaminants, and determine the type of fracture that has occurred using fractography.
● Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy
FTIR is a technique that has been used over the years in both academia and industry for structural and compositional analysis. It can be used to assess the heterogeneity of polymer materials to screen for compositional differences that could lead to mechanical failure. It can also identify and study the polymer degradation mechanisms, such as oxidation of polyethylene or hydrolysis of polyurethane.
● Gel permeation chromatography (GPC)
GPC is a type of size-exclusion chromatography (SEC), that separates analytes on the basis of size, typically in organic solvents. It is one of the most versatile analytical techniques for understanding and predicting polymer properties. In addition to being used to determine the average molecular weight distribution of polymer samples, it is also used to assess material degradation for failure analysis of polymer products.
Extensive experience
Advanced technology platform
Sincere service
Acceptable price
Extensive experience: Our analysis team consists of scientists and technicians with extensive experience in the field of failure analysis, who can effectively solve your problems.
Advanced technology platform: We have an advanced technology platform for a comprehensive root cause investigation and a formal failure analysis.
Sincere service: Our technical experts will provide you with a full range of services to meet all your needs.
Acceptable price: We will provide you with the most professional service at the best price to reasonably save your cost.
