Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) with EDX Analysis

Gain definitive answers about your materials with precise surface analysis and elemental composition detection. Element's advanced SEM and EDX analysis delivers the detailed data you need for confident quality validation, failure investigation, and process optimization, supporting your critical decision-making needs.

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What is Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) with EDX Analysis at Element?

SEM analysis employs focused electron beams to produce high-magnification images of material surfaces, while EDX analysis provides detailed elemental composition data. At Element, we combine these powerful techniques to deliver comprehensive surface evaluation and chemical analysis, providing you with complete material characterization insights. Our integrated approach supports your investigation needs with both visual and compositional analysis capabilities.  

Element testing specialist examining precision measurement equipment for materials analysis

What Can Element Offer You For Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) with EDX Analysis?

Methods and solutions offered

Element's integrated approach to Scanning Electron Microscopy combines high-resolution SEM imaging with precise EDX elemental analysis. We utilize state-of-the-art quantitative analysis techniques for particle sizing, surface defect evaluation, and material composition verification. We deliver:

  • Comprehensive metallurgical evaluations
  • Detailed surface topography analysis
  • Quantitative elemental analysis
  • Product deformulation studies
  • Adhesion and bonding investigations

Materials we test

Our advanced SEM-EDX capabilities support analysis across diverse materials, from metals to complex composites. We specialize in examining surface characteristics, wear patterns, and elemental composition for manufacturing, aerospace, and industrial applications. From cement production to pharmaceutical development, our comprehensive testing capabilities cover the full spectrum of industrial and specialized materials. Our analysis supports mining operations, metal manufacturing, and advanced materials development across multiple sectors. Our expertise extends to:

  • Bulk solids and granules for industrial processing
  • Powders and thin films for advanced applications
  • Iron and steel components for structural analysis
  • Non-ferrous metals for specialized applications
  • Polymers and composites for performance testing
  • Healthcare and pharmaceutical materials
  • Environmental and food industry samples  

Key tests offered

We provide comprehensive surface topography imaging, particle characterization, contamination analysis, and elemental composition mapping. Our services include critical dimensional measurements, fractography, and detailed chemical analysis for failure investigations. Our complete range of testing capabilities includes:

  • Contaminant and residue analysis
  • Critical dimensional measurement
  • Failure analysis and investigation
  • Fractography studies
  • Surface flaw/defect analysis
  • Particle analysis for wear testing
  • Adhesion and bonding investigations
  • Product deformulation analysis
  • Contamination detection
  • Expert witness services

Cutting-edge equipment we use

We employ advanced scanning electron microscopes with integrated EDX capabilities, enabling magnifications up to nanometer scale and precise elemental detection from carbon to uranium. Our equipment supports:

  • High-resolution surface imaging
  • Precise elemental mapping
  • Quantitative composition analysis
  • Critical dimensional measurements
  • Comprehensive particle characterization

Advanced analytical capabilities

Our unique combination of SEM imaging and EDX spectroscopy allows for simultaneous surface and compositional analysis, providing comprehensive insights for complex material investigations. We support:

Standards we test to and materials we test

These are our most prevalent requests. Don't see what you're looking for? Contact us!

American Society for Metals

  • ASM Handbook Volume II

American Society for Testing & Materials

  • ASTM E1508, ASTM F1798, ASTM F1820, ASTM F2009

Various Internal Standards

Your Challenges, Our Solutions

Detecting Surface Defects and Contaminants

Our high-resolution SEM imaging identifies even microscopic defects, contaminants, and unknown particles. With precise surface evaluation, we help manufacturers detect issues before they impact product performance or regulatory compliance.

Understanding Material Composition with Confidence

EDX analysis provides detailed elemental mapping, allowing you to verify material composition and detect inconsistencies. This helps ensure material reliability for industries such as aerospace, medical devices, and advanced manufacturing.

Identifying Failure Root Causes Quickly

Our combined SEM-EDX approach enables a comprehensive failure investigation by revealing both structural and chemical characteristics of materials. This accelerates root cause analysis, supporting corrective actions to prevent future failures.

Ensuring Compliance with Industry Standards

Advanced particle analysis and contamination detection capabilities ensure your products meet the highest quality standards. Our detailed material characterization helps you maintain consistent quality and reduce manufacturing variability. Through critical dimensional measurement and surface flaw analysis, we support your quality control processes with precise, quantitative data.

Why Choose Element

Element materials testing engineer operating precision measurement equipment for quality analysis

Global expertise

Access world-class testing capabilities through our network of laboratories across North America, Europe, Middle East, Australia, Asia and Africa.

Comprehensive analysis

Get complete material insights through our integrated SEM-EDX approach, supporting both surface and compositional analysis.

Industry leadership

Benefit from our extensive experience across aerospace, transportation, oil & gas, and infrastructure sectors.

Technical excellence

Partner with our knowledgeable metallurgists who provide critical expertise and valuable process improvement insights.

Frequently asked questions

What is EDX RF Analysis?

Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (EDX RF) provides precise quantification of major, minor, and trace elements across a broad range of sample types, including bulk solids, granules, powders, thin films, and liquids. With minimal sample preparation, EDX RF can analyze elements from carbon (9) to uranium (92) and is widely used in industries such as:

  • Cement production
  • Mining & mineral beneficiation
  • Iron, steel, and non-ferrous metals
  • RoHS screening & quantification
  • Petroleum & petrochemicals
  • Polymers & related industries
  • Glass production
  • Pharmaceuticals & healthcare products
  • Environmental analysis
  • Food & cosmetics

What are typical uses for EDX Analysis?

Typical uses for EDX Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence) include:

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Speak to our team of experts

AMERICAS

Toll free from US lines

+1 888 786 7555

EUROPE

Contact our Central Team
UK

Freephone from UK

+44 808 234 1667

Germany

Freephone from Germany 

+49 800 000 5137

MIDDLE EAST

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+971 800 353 6368