In addition to mechanical and non-destructive testing procedures and methods for high-temperature characterization, the Fraunhofer-Center HTL has many analytical procedures for the characterization of liquids, suspensions and solids. The composition, structure and flow properties of various raw materials, intermediate and end products are determined using the appropriate analytical devices. As there are a variety of available analytical tools, the most suitable method for the specific issue can be selected. The Fraunhofer-Center HTL works closely together with the Center for Applied Analytics at the ISC, where the following analytical methods are available:
- Chemical analysis: X-ray fluorescence, wet-chemical process analysis, optical emission spectroscopy
- Microstructure analysis: X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy combined with energy and wavelength dispersive X-ray analysis, transmission electron microscopy
- Surface analysis: X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, topography measurement
Other analytical process-related analysis methods at Fraunhofer-Center HTL complement chemical analyses (CHNO analysis, infrared spectroscopy), provide rheological information (viscometer, Hall flowmeter) and characterize pores (nitrogen adsorption/desorption), material densities (Archimedes and He density, bulk and tap density) and particles (Fraunhofer diffraction, electrokinetic sound amplitude, sieve analysis). In combination with light microscopy and electron microscopy, various ceramic preparation methods are available.
At Fraunhofer-Center HTL, further methods for chemical resistance and corrosion tests are available. Material resistance can be tested in acid and alkaline solutions as well as in different gases and atmospheres. Different temperature and pressure conditions can also be simulated. We carry out salt spray tests according to DIN EN ISO 9227, and our chemical analyses enable us to examine and document corrosion damage and material changes precisely. Corrosion tests can also be undertaken with in-situ weight measurement at high temperatures in different atmospheres (see TOM_chem).