Analyze

Microscopy and Surface Observation

Observe and characterize details that visual examination alone cannot explain.

A visible anomaly is not always enough to understand a surface. Microscopy more finely examines its topography, defects, and alterations to inform the diagnosis.

The Stakes

What Observation Provides

See Beyond Appearance

Examine surface details that are difficult to characterize with the naked eye.

Characterize Alterations

Deepen the analysis of pitting, cracking, irregularities, or other superficial modifications.

Document the Surface

Retain observations and data to support the assessment or compare changes in the surface over time.

Your need

When to Deepen Observation?

A discoloration, irregularity, or visible alteration is not always enough to understand the true condition of a surface.

A visual inspection leaves lingering doubt.
Pitting, cracking, or superficial alterations are suspected.
An anomaly must be characterized before choosing a treatment.
An area of installed equipment cannot be sampled.
You wish to complement a roughness measurement or topography analysis.

Our Approach

Observe to Better Understand

Technochim combines direct observation, its Keyence 3D microscope, and, depending on the objective, interferometric characterization.

When direct examination is not suitable, a surface replica can allow for the local study of an accessible area.
The choice of method depends on the surface condition, accessibility, and the information sought.

Target Areas

Identify surfaces representative of the observed condition or anomaly.

Choose the Method

Define direct observation, 3D microscopy, or the use of a replica according to the need.

Observe & Characterize

Examine details, reliefs, and alterations useful for the investigation.

Cross-Reference Results

Relate observations to the history, measurements, and usage conditions of the surface.

Understand the Observation

3D Microscopy: Visualizing Topography

3D microscopes allow going beyond a flat image to observe and characterize the relief of a surface.

Relate Topography to the Actual Surface Condition

This comprehensive reading complements roughness measurements by providing access to a representation of the topography and facilitates the comparison of different areas or surface states. The goal is not only to see more, but to relate what is observed to the actual condition of the surface and the problem encountered.

Surface Replicas: Characterizing Without Removing a Coupon

When sampling is not desirable or possible, a surface replica can reproduce the topography of an accessible area for later examination. This approach is particularly useful for locally characterizing an alteration on installed equipment, without removing a coupon. A metallographic replica serves a different purpose: it may require specific surface preparation, such as polishing or etching, to reveal its microstructure. In both cases, the fidelity of the replica and the preparation and observation conditions must be considered when interpreting the results.

Fields of Application

Suspect Surfaces

Areas with pitting or alterations

Installed Equipment

Polished or Electropolished Surfaces

Metallic Samples

Technochim expertise

Observe, Characterize, Interpret

Technochim has its own analysis laboratory, equipped with a Keyence 3D microscope and an interferometer.

Microscopy is combined with other diagnostic and metrology tools to cross-reference observations, measurements, and knowledge of treatment processes.

This approach allows us to look beyond the appearance of a surface and seek the elements necessary to understand its condition.

Let's Talk About the Surface to Be Observed

Describe your equipment, its material, the observed anomaly, and the accessibility of the affected area. This information will help define an observation and characterization approach tailored to your needs.