Surface Characterization

surface characterization

Maximizing adhesion involves the discovery of optimum conditions for joining two or more surfaces together. Surface characterization investigations focuses on the problems associated with both adhesion and bond strength. Adhesion failures will occur when, for example, contaminants such as silicones are inadvertently introduced into the fabrication process, or if the chosen adhesive components are not formulated correctly. Innumerable failure modes and causes of failures can exist for different materials systems.

For packaging materials requiring surface pretreatments and organic coatings, failures can occur due to insufficient surface energies and contaminants at the joining surfaces. If an adhesive is used, failures may also occur.

Uncovering the source of adhesion and bonding issues utilizing laboratory surface analyses can necessarily require the use of surface-sensitive analytical tools. And whenever possible, the failure site should be investigated by examining both sides of the failed or delaminated interface.

Our surface characterizations can measure a wide range of sample types including polymers, films, coatings, metals, plastics, ceramics, glass, textiles, and other sample types.

What we offer

PackEdge Global’s surface characterization services include: 

  • Analysis/Reporting: of surface properties using the following techniques:
    • X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS, ESCA)
    • Auger Electron Spectroscopy (AES)
    • Atomic force microscopy (AFM)
    • Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (Static) (TOF-SIMS)
    • Scanning Electron Microscopy and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM/EDS)
    • Fourier Transform Infrared Analysis (FTIR)
    • Surface energy & contact angle
  • Evaluate/Advise: Appropriate surface modification requirements and parameter adjustments required to reach adhesion goals.
  • Develop/Deliver: Trial protocols and matrices to evaluate and confirm material surface modification requirements.
  • Train: Employees so they possess the knowledge required to achieve and maintain operational standards for adhesion consistency.