Material Properties Testing Services

Our chemical analysis services cover a range of material types, from traditional metals and alloys to new polymers and composites. We equip our labs with state-of-the-art technology, and can perform a variety of analysis techniques. 

In addition to standardized procedures, our labs can set up custom or complex test plans. Some of the services that we offer include:

• Atomic Absorption (AA) / Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption (GFAA)
• Combustion Analysis
• Density and Specific Gravity
• Dimensional Stability
• Direct Current Plasma (DCP)
• Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR)
• Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS)
• Glow Discharge Spectrometry (GDS)
• Gravimetric Wet Chemistry
• Ignition Loss
• Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP)
• Moisture Content
• Optical Emission Spectroscopy (OES)
• Recovery Time
• Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Determination
• Water Vapor Transmission
• X-Ray Diffraction (XRD)
• X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF)

Mechanical testing is one of the most important parts of any materials testing program. By pushing materials to failure, we can collect data about their strength, flexibility, ductility, hardness, and more. Our labs help you get the most out of these critical test methods. 

Element offers a wide range of mechanical tests, on both metallic and non-metallics. In addition to standardized methods, our labs can assist with custom or complex set-ups. Some of the services that we offer include:

• Abrasion Resistance Testing 
• Adhesive Strength Testing
• Bend Testing
• Bond Strength Testing
• Coefficient of Friction
• Compression Testing
• Creep and Stress Rupture Testing
• Elongation Testing
• Expansion Testing
• Fastener Holding Testing
• Fatigue Testing
• Flexural Strength Testing
• Fracture Toughness Testing
• Hardness Testing
• Impact Testing
• Indentation Force Deflection (IDF)
• Modulus of Rupture
• Package Seal Burst Strength Testing
• Peel Strength
• Puncture Resistance Testing
• r-Value Testing
• Shear Testing
• Strain Gaging
• Stress/Strain Analysis
• Tear Testing
• Tensile Testing
• Torque Testing
• Weld Mechanical Testing

Metallography is a group of techniques used to investigate properties of metals and alloys. Metallographic methods characterize the microstructure of a material, determine the inclusion content of a metal, test the corrosion resistance of a coating or material, and much more. 

Our metallography labs have state-of-the-art equipment for investigating a wide range of metallic conditions. We can test to standard protocols, or partner with you to design unique programs to fit your needs. Some of the methods we use include:

• Alloy Depletion
• Alpha Case Evaluation
• Austenite Measurements
• Carburization/Depth of Decarburization
• Case Depth
• Casting Evaluation
• Ferrite Measurements
• Fractography
• Grain Size Measurements
• Inclusion Content
• Intergranular Corrosion
• Microstructure Evaluation
• Particle Analysis
• Passivation
• Photomicrography
• Pitting and Crevice Corrosion
• Plating and Coating Thickness
• Recast Evaluation
• Replication Metallography
• Scanning Electron Microscopy / Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM/EDS)

Thermal analysis methods use a combination of heat and mechanical force to track changes in material structure. These tests identify important heat-dependent characteristics, such as glass transition temperature and phase transitions. 

Because of the fluid nature of these materials, understanding their properties is vital. Our thermal analysis methods provide insight into how materials can be used and stored. We help you anticipate changes, and avoid issues before they become failures.Some of the methods that we offer include:

• Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC)
• Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA)
• Heat Deflection Temperature
• Linear Thermal Expansion
• Thermogravimetric Analysis (DSC)
• Thermomechanical Analysis (TMA)

As technology advances in every sector, materials need to withstand more extreme environments than ever before. To make sure that your materials and products are up to the task, Element offers a full suite of environmental testing services. 

Our labs perform environmental testing in a range of thermal, mechanical and corrosive conditions. With years of experience in a variety of industries, our experts are ready to assist with any project. Some of the environmental testing methods that we offer include:

• Accelerated Aging & Ultraviolet Exposure
• Color Testing
• Environmental Stress Cracking
• Flammability Testing
• Freeze/Thaw Testing
• Gloss Testing
• High Temperature-High Pressure (HTHP) Testing
• Mold & Fungus Resistance
• Ozone Resistance Testing
• Salt Spray Testing
• Sweet and Sour Gas Exposure
• Temperature & Humidity Testing
• Water Immersion
• Weatherability/UV Weathering