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Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)

A grid of six scanning electron microscope images showing particles, fibres, and surface textures at magnifications from 200x to 45,000x

Test method standards

ISO 16700
ASTM E986

Why this test matters

Many material features that affect performance are too small to see with conventional microscopy. Scanning Electron Microscopy helps companies identify defects, surface features, and microstructural details that influence strength, wear, and failure. It supports quality control, root cause analysis, and product development. This technique is widely used across materials science, manufacturing, electronics, aerospace, automotive, energy, and research-driven industries.

How the test works

The test scans a focused electron beam across the sample surface. Interactions between electrons and the material generate signals that are collected to form detailed images. Samples are prepared to ensure surface stability and conductivity. Key parameters include magnification, accelerating voltage, working distance, and detector type.

What you learn from this test

The test provides high-resolution images that reveal surface morphology, fractures, particles, and microstructural features. When combined with analytical detectors, it can also support elemental identification. Companies use these insights to investigate failures, validate processing steps, compare materials, and improve designs. The results support confident decisions on quality, reliability, and performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our published tests cover our most requested methods, but they don't represent everything we can do. Get in touch and describe your challenge, we'll tell you whether it fits an existing method or requires a custom one.

If you already know the standard or property you need tested, browse our tests directly. If you're not sure, describe your material, your product, or the problem you're trying to solve, and our experts will guide you to the right test, or design a custom approach if none of our standard tests fit.

BELAC is the Belgian accreditation body. A BELAC-accredited test means an independent assessor has verified that we perform that specific test, to that specific standard, in a controlled and repeatable way, in line with ISO/IEC 17025. Sirris Testlabs holds BELAC accreditation under certificate n° 232-TEST.

Request this test

Send us your request with as much detail as you can share: material, component, quantity of samples,the standard you need to work to… We’ll review it and come back with scope, lead time and price. Drawings, specifications or earlier test reports help us assess feasibility faster.

Our tests experts

Guido Heunen

Senior Engineer Additive Manufacturing

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