Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) - NWTC Laboratory

The SEM capability at Intertek NWTC is very comprehensive with three instruments available with different technical capabilities depending upon the specific application required.

SEM can be used for visualisation of samples or investigating contamination issues. The very high depth of field means it is ideal for analysis of samples with complex topography where optical microscopy would not provide such useful information (for example fabrics and fibres).

The instruments also have EDX capability for chemical characterisation of materials, this is very useful for determniation of the source of contamination as an inorganic chemical analysis can be obtained. Examples of this use include type matching of metal particles against various steels to show the likely source. A case study of this application may be found here

• Case study of contamination analysis

Our experts have considerable cross sectional and investigational experience with projects involving solid pharmaceutical products or APIs, drug delivery systems, consumer healthcare products, medical equipment and diagnostic devices to assist product / process development and manufacturing support

Intertek NWTC has a unique capability in the analysis of high water content samples using cryogenic microscopy and ultra fast freezing techniques. This can be used to show the microstructure of emulsions, gels and other structured liquids. For further information about this capability please visit cryo-microscopy.

• Global Intertek Microscopy Analysis

Please contact us to confidentially discuss your microscopy analysis requirements.

Related Techniques available from the Intertek Pharmaceutical Laboratory network:

• Physical–chemical characterisation technologies including XRD (polymorphism, crystal habit, crystallinity), particle size, porosity and thermal analysis.