Small manufacturers can access essential technologies for nondestructive evaluation of composite parts at the University of Tennessee. The Center for Materials Processing, can provide access to a variety of imaging techniques including, optical microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The center has access to thermogravimetric analysis, or TGA, for determining important process parameters such as vaporization temperatures and mass fractions. Additionally, the center offers dry powder separators (sieves), lab scale grinders and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to dial in processes parameters.
Claudia Rawn, Director and Chris Wetteland, Associate Director for Industrial Partnerships, at the Center for Materials Processing are leaders in their field and are supportive of industrial engagement. Mr. Wetteland was kind enough to show me the scanning electron microscope in action. The attached image of a 3D printed composite part shows a composition of chromium, iron, oxygen and carbon on a 10 micron scale.
Do you have questions about your material content before, during or after processing? You can learn more about the equipment. As always, UT CIS is here to provide support for your manufacturing operation.
