Surface Contamination Investigations

Examples of Surface Contamination Investigations

Below are some examples of surface contamination investigations that our experienced Ph.D. scientists have worked on:

  • Solvent Residue on Surfaces– One classic example of surface contamination is the residue left by evaporating solvent on a surface. As the solvent evaporates, the circular shape of the remaining liquid shrinks in diameter. During this process, salts and dissolved materials concentrate at the circumference, leading to precipitation. This often results in a visible ring-shaped contamination. We tested this residue material using X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) to determine its elemental and chemical composition.
Classic surface contamination residue left by the evaporation of a solvent on a surface.
  • Anti-Reflective Coating Damage on Lenses– In another case, a scratch in an anti-reflective coating on a lens allowed an interior layer to react with water vapor, resulting in contamination. We used the Nomarski phase interference contrast method with our metallographic microscope to capture an image of the damage. Next, we applied XPS analysis to identify that a specific underlayer within the multi-layer film was corroding. Additionally, we found water as the attacking agent.
    A scratch in an anti-reflective coating on a lens allowed an interior layer to react with water vapor and produce contamination. 
    • Contamination on a Printed Circuit Board– Furthermore, we looked at contamination on a printed circuit board. Using XPS, we successfully identified the contaminants affecting the board.
    Contamination on a printed circuit board was analyzed with XPS and identified.

    Additional Investigations

    We have also completed several other surface contamination investigations. Here are some examples discussed on our website:

    Contact Us

    If you have questions about surface contamination or need help with specific material challenges, please contact us at Anderson Materials Evaluation. Our team of experts is here to provide you with detailed insights and tailored solutions for your material evaluation needs. You can reach us via phone, email, or our online contact form. We look forward to assisting you with your inquiries!