Microscopy Techniques in the Failure Analysis of Optoelectronics
EAG divides FA tasks into three levels. In each level, we employ optimal techniques for device characterization, defect localization, and root cause failure analysis.
GC-MS Analysis on 3D Printed Titanium
Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, is transforming how products and parts are manufactured. It enables the creation and freedom of design for a variety of products from personal items such as keychains to customized consumer products in medical, aerospace, automotive industries and more. The product quality requirements in these high-tech sectors have validated the need for advanced materials characterization.
Contamination Analysis Using GC-MS
In this example, we noticed contamination on a 3D printed titanium sample. The contamination appeared to be a silicon-based oil/grease contamination which may have occurred during the printing process. We decided to use Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) as it is a technique that can detect and identify the volatile compounds present in most oils, greases and silicones.
Outgassing GC-MS can detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as solvents, adhesives/epoxies, monomers, and oils at a ppb detection limit. The 3D cast titanium sample was outgassed at 275 C for 60 minutes with the cryotrap temperature held at -70 C. The data shows peaks correlating to common cyclic siloxane species present on the 3D printed part. This data agreed with previous technique
assessments that silicone species were present, but goes a step further by identifying the exact silicone species.
The total ion chromatogram (TIC) of printed titanium sample outgassed at 275 C for 60 minutes focusing on silicone species. The use of outgassing GC-MS verified the silicone and that it will outgas at elevated temperature.
GC-MS can help with failure analysis or contamination characterization analysis on 3D printed parts. Utilizing a variety of different sampling techniques, GC-MS is a versatile tool that can identify specific species of volatile organic compounds. GC-MS can reveal not just classifications of molecules, but the exact molecules present in an analysis. This technique is innately semi-quantitative, but can be quantitative by using multi-point calibration curves for species of interest.
At Eurofins EAG, our technical experts have many years of experience working with our clients to help solve contamination and failure-related problems. Contact us today to learn how we can help you on your next 3D printed project.
Related Resources
- Webinar: Metal Based Additive Manufacturing Analysis
- Webinar: GC-MS
- Application Note: Additive Manufacturing: Metallurgical and Material Services
- Application Note: Analysis of Contaminants by Thermal Desorption GC-MS
- Service: Contaminant Identification
- Technique: GC-MS
- Industry: Aerospace
- Industry: Automotive
- Industry: Medical Devices
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