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How do different surfaces affect friction?

Friction is not a fundamental force. It is a result, not a cause – unlike gravity or electromagnetism. Specifically: friction occurs due to electromagnetic attraction between charged particles in mating surfaces. Whether those surfaces are in motion plays a role in the type of friction at play (static versus kinetic). But most important is the […]

How Micro-CT Machines Aid the Study of Bone Structure and Development

Bones are an essential part of human and animal bodies – offering protection, structure and support, as well as facilitating movement. They have intricate structures, and understanding their development is crucial for various fields, including anthropology, medicine and palaeontology. One of the most accurate and effective ways of analysing bone structure is through Micro-CT. This […]

What to Look for in an XRD Instrument for Material Analysis?

X-ray diffraction (XRD) is a powerful analytical technique suitable for analysing a material’s bulk physical properties, such as crystalline structure and phase composition. It is commonly used in research and industry as XRD helps scientists characterise solid solutions, identify patterns, and many other applications. A wide range of XRD instruments are available for researchers to […]

A Brief Guide to Raman Imaging

Spectroscopy is the cornerstone of analytical science. It enables researchers to study the interaction between electromagnetic radiation and matter, providing all manner of critical insights. Within that ambit is the Raman effect. This is the foundational element of Raman imaging, which helps unveil the chemical composition and molecular structure of various samples. But how does […]

Why use optical emission spectrometers for metal analysis?

Optical emission spectrometry, often abbreviated as OES, is a sophisticated method that involves the study of spectral lines emitted by elements in the sample when they are excited. The process typically uses arc spark or spark excitation to stimulate the metal sample, leading to light emission at specific wavelengths. These wavelengths are then analyzed to […]

Understanding Depth Profiling in Materials Science

Depth profiling is a pivotal technique in materials science, offering insights into the vertical distribution of elements or chemical species within a sample. This process, crucial for understanding a material’s composition and structure, involves analyzing the surface layer and progressively removing material layer by layer. This blog post delves into the intricacies of depth profiling, […]

What is TXRF Used for?

Total-reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) is not just another acronym in the vast landscape of materials science. It’s a game-changer. When it comes to achieving higher sensitivity, lower detection limits, and reduced background noise in X-ray fluorescence analysis, TXRF stands out as a premier technique. But what makes it so special, and where is it most […]

Exploring the Importance of Film Thickness in Modern Manufacturing Processes

Manufacturing processes are evolving continuously to meet customers’ demands for specific products and quality. Amidst this technological evolution, film thickness stands out as a pivotal factor influencing a product’s properties and performance. This article delves deep the significance of film thickness, offering insights into its role in various types of manufacturing processes. 1. The Role […]

Why a Triboindenter is the Ideal Tool for Characterising Thin Films?

Thin films are widely used in a range of applications, including integrated circuits, optical coatings, and solar cells. Characterising the mechanical properties of thin films is essential for understanding their behaviour and optimising their performance in those applications. In this blog post, we will explore why a triboindenter is the ideal tool for characterising thin […]

How Cathodoluminescence Microscopy Helps in Semiconductor Analysis

Cathodoluminescence microscopy is a powerful technique used for semiconductor analysis at the nanoscale. It involves the stimulation of a sample with a high-energy electron beam in an electron microscope, which results in the emission of light or photons known as cathodoluminescence (CL). This technique surpasses the limitations of optical microscopes by providing sub-nanometer spatial resolution, […]