Positive Material Identification (PMI) Testing Services

Need fast, reliable material verification without shipping delays or risk of damage? Element's Positive Material Identification (PMI) Testing Services deliver accurate alloy composition analysis both on-site and in our labs. We help you maintain compliance and avoid costly mix-ups while keeping your projects on schedule, wherever you operate.

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What is Positive Material Identification (PMI) Testing at Element?

PMI Testing is a non-destructive testing method used to verify the chemical composition of metals and alloys. Here at Element, we offer laboratory and portable XRF analysis solutions to confirm the types and percentages of elements in a material, helping you validate components at any stage of manufacturing without compromising their integrity.

Element testing specialist examining precision measurement equipment for materials analysis

What Can Element Offer You For Positive Material Identification?

Key tests offered

PMI Testing Services: Using XRF and OES technologies for precise chemical analysis of metals and alloys.

Certified Alloy Verification: Official certification for alloy composition, ensuring compliance for safety-critical applications.

Banned Elements Detection: Identifying restricted elements like lead and cadmium per ASTM E1476 standards.

Mixed Batch Analysis: Ensuring consistency and eliminating material mix-up risks.

On-Site Metallographic Analysis: Providing structural evaluations without damaging components.

Components and materials we test

We provide comprehensive testing for medium and high-alloy metals, including stainless steels, nickel alloys, aluminum, titanium, and copper alloys. Our services cover single-component verification, large batch analysis, and high-value or complex component evaluations.

Methods and solutions offered

For components that can’t be destroyed or shipped to a lab, our PMI testing can deliver invaluable results. Our XRF gun (X-ray fluorescence device) is a portable, non-destructive and cost-effective option for verifying alloy composition identifying general material types, and also evaluating materials in large batches.

Quality Assurance & documentation

We support your compliance needs with comprehensive documentation, traceability reports, and certified verification results. Our ISO 17025 accreditation ensures your testing meets the highest quality standards, backed by state-of-the-art equipment and rigorous procedures.

Cutting-edge equipment we use

Our state-of-the-art XRF analyzers and OES (optical emission spectroscopy) technology deliver precise chemical analysis for both laboratory and portable testing requirements.

Which labs offer this service?

Element offers PMI testing both in advanced labs and on-site across the US and Europe. Key PMI labs include Aberdeen, Amsterdam, Doha, Hamburg, Huntington Beach, and New Berlin. Find your nearest Materials Testing hub on our Locations Page.

Standards we test to and materials we test

These are our most prevalent requests. Don't see what you're looking for? Contact us!

ASTM E1476

Your Challenges, Our Solutions

Time-Critical Material Verification

Our on-site testing teams come to you with portable XRF analyzers, delivering rapid results that keep your project on schedule without shipping delays.

Risk of Material Mix-ups

Comprehensive batch analysis and certified alloy verification ensure your materials meet specifications, eliminating costly mistakes and compliance issues.

Testing Without Damage

Non-destructive PMI testing preserves your components' integrity while providing accurate composition analysis, perfect for finished or high-value items.

Complex Testing Requirements

Access both laboratory and on-site testing capabilities with experts who understand your industry-specific needs and material requirements.

Why Choose Element

Element materials testing engineer operating precision measurement equipment for quality analysis

Global Reach, Local Support

Access our extensive US and European testing network with on-site capabilities, ensuring expert alloy verification and material analysis at your location.

Industry-Leading Expertise

Our ISO 17025-accredited labs and seasoned specialists provide precise PMI testing, backed by decades of materials testing experience.

Flexible, Non-Destructive Testing

Choose lab or on-site analysis with fast, accurate results—ensuring minimal material damage and reducing costly project delays.

Certified Alloy Verification

We detect a wide range of metals and alloys, verifying materials on-site or in-lab to meet strict industry specifications.

ISO
17025

accreditation

8+
global locations

XRF & OES
testing

available

ASTM
E1476

compliant

Element materials scientist conducting precision testing with advanced laboratory instrumentation

Frequently asked questions

Can PMI testing be performed on finished components?

Yes, our non-destructive PMI testing is ideal for finished components and items that cannot be damaged or shipped to a lab.

What elements can PMI testing detect?

PMI testing can detect most metal elements but cannot detect carbon. It's particularly effective for analyzing alloy composition and identifying restricted elements.

Do you provide any documentation with PMI testing?

Yes, we provide official alloy verification certificates and complete compliance documentation to support your traceability and safety-critical requirements.

What makes XRF analysis cost-effective?

XRF analysis provides rapid results without damaging materials, eliminating replacement costs and reducing operational downtime. It's particularly efficient for large batch testing.

Explore our global network of labs and find your nearest location

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On-site PMI testing with portable XRF-analyzer

Shipping large, heavy, or sensitive materials to a laboratory can be time-consuming and costly. As part of On-site Metallographic Analysis, Element’s portable PMI testing using advanced XRF analyzers provides rapid results when fast project timelines or logistical constraints make lab testing impractical. Our team of PMI experts travels directly to your site, offering precise and non-destructive material verification that ensures your project stays on track without costly delays or interruptions to your operations.