SelectScience
Join Free
Accelerating Science
NewsMaterials

Advancements in materials characterization: From decoding polymers and battery materials to harnessing the power of atomic force microscopy

SelectScience

Explore advanced technologies and the latest resources to support your materials characterization

28 Mar 2023
Georgina Wynne Hughes
Editorial Assistant

Editorial article

Materials science is the field of study that focuses on understanding the overall properties, structure, and performance of materials. This rapidly evolving field plays a crucial role within many industries, from aerospace and sustainable energy to healthcare and beyond. Over the past few decades, there have been significant advances in the field of materials science, which has led to the development of many novel materials, which hold remarkable properties and applications. These applications have a profound impact on society – from the clothes we wear to the smartphones we use, which is why it is not surprising that the field of materials science has a direct impact on our daily lives.

Materials characterization is a vital component of materials science, and involves exploring the properties, structure, and composition of different materials. By applying the most appropriate tools to better understand the fundamental properties of a given material, scientists can develop new and improved materials to create innovative technologies and products to improve our quality of life and help answer unsolved questions.

In this special feature, we explore some of the latest breakthroughs and cutting-edge technologies in the field of materials science, and how they are keeping pace with the fast-moving nature of the field. This feature will help you take your research to the next level by exploring battery material characterization, the power of atomic force microscopy (AFM), and how to unravel the structures of polymers.

Atomic force microscopy: Harness the power of AFM for materials science

Unlock the full potential of atomic force microscopy (AFM) with this comprehensive guide, which includes a range of real-life case studies focused on magnetic and 2D materials, along with high energy density batteries. Plus, learn how Bruker can help you overcome common setbacks and achieve accurate and reliable AFM results.

Download guide

Polymers: Decoding the structure of polymers with GPC/SEC

In this video, learn about polymer properties and advanced detection technologies, including light scattering. Plus, discover how refractive index (RI) and light scattering techniques can provide accurate information on the true molecular weight (MW) and radius of gyration (Rg) of polymers with TOSOH BIOSCIENCE.

Watch video

Battery performance: Expert guide to battery materials characterization

In this expert guide, learn how to effectively ensure optimal battery performance is achieved using high-quality and well-characterizated materials, including key information based on solid electrode materials, electrode slurries, electrolytes, and state-of-the-art solutions from Anton Paar to take your research to the next level.

Download guide

Expand your materials characterization knowledge with these top resources:

  • In this expert guide, discover a suite of analytical technologies designed to assess the properties and composition of various minerals of gemstones, along with volcanic and metamorphic rocks.
    Download guide >> 
  • In this exclusive interview, hear from Dr. Marco Caffio at Integrated Graphene to find out more about his pioneering work on graphene production, and how his team has found the winning formula to manufacture pristine graphene at a low cost.
    Read article >> 
  • Are you looking to invest in a new microscope? If so, this essential guide provides you with all the information you need to make the right purchasing decisions for your research.
    Download guide >> 
  • QC: This application eBook will help you discover how Raman microscopy can yield vital information on molecular structures, crystal phases, polymorphisms, and much more.
    Download guide >>
  • In this article, explore the top-rated UV/VIS spectrophotometers chosen by our scientific audience.
    Read article >> 
  • In this eBook, we review the literature for the most advanced FTIR spectroscopy products and explore cutting-edge research across a diverse range of fields.
    Download guide >> 
  • Find out how to effectively analyze and screen e-liquids and e-cigarettes for harmful substances, using state-of the art gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GCMS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) methods.
    Download guide >>
  • In this article, meet our reviewer in the spotlight, as he explains more about how his research focuses on the development of new battery materials for improved energy harvesting and storage.
    Read article >>

Your recommendations

Find out what researchers across the globe are saying about the products they use! Qumber Ali Tariq, at University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Lahore, shared this review of the ZEISS Lightsheet Z.1 Microscope.

For more of the latest news, straight to your inbox, become a member of SelectScience for free today>>

Related products

Request Quote for All Products

MCR Evolution Series Rheometers

Anton PAAR USA

The new MCR Evolution series is the result of consistent thinking and rethinking, of continuous development based on decades of experience and the feedback of more than 10,000 satisfied customers.

(1)

LenS3 MALS and MALS-V Multi-Angle Light Scattering Detector Series

Tosoh Bioscience - Separations

The LenS3 MALS detector offers a revolutionary approach for the measurement of molecular weight (MW) and radius of gyration (Rg) of synthetic polymers, polysaccharides, proteins, and biopolymers. A novel optical design, a unique cell-block assembly, and a new calculation methodology make the LenS3 MALS detector the first groundbreaking innovation in the light scattering technology arena in decades!

(1)

Dimension FastScan™

Bruker Nano Surfaces and Metrology

World's Ultimate AFM The new benchmark for speed with highest resolution and performanceThe Dimension FastScan™ delivers, for the first time, extreme imaging speed without loss of resolution, loss of force control, added complexity, or additional operating costs.This tip-scanning system provides measurements on both large and small size samples in air or fluids. With the FastScan you can achieve immediate atomic force microscopy images with the expected high resolution of a high-performance AFM, all in a single system. Whether surveying a sample scanning at >125Hz to find the region of interest, or scanning for detail at 1-second per image frame in air or fluids, the Dimension FastScan will redefine your AFM experience.Dimension FastScan™ Features: Work hundreds of times faster with fast scanning rates up to frames per second, automated laser and detector alignment, comprehensive work flow and smart engaging Built-in measurement automation software in conjunction with higher speed ScanAsyst® provide exceptional measurement confidence and repeatability Precise force control at the tip renders high resolution and long tip-life Low-noise, temperature-compensated sensors in the scanners maintain sub-nanometer noise levels Closed-loop Icon and FastScan scanners keep vertical noise below 30pm and 40pm, respectively, as well as high accuracy with ultra-low drift Sample from subnanometer to hundreds of nanometers in height without loss of resolution

(1)

Links

SelectScienceCompany website

Tags

Raman SpectroscopyRaman spectroscopy is used to discern the vibrational and rotational states of molecules and hence the chemical composition of a sample by measuring the inelastic scattering of monochromatic light. Explore a range of Raman spectrometers, including handheld/portable Raman spectrometers for QC/QA labs and in situ spectrometers for processes. Conduct Raman imaging for microanalysis of mixed samples using a Raman microscope. Raman spectrographs are also available. Find the best Raman spectroscopy products in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.UV-Visible SpectroscopyUltraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometers are used to measure the interaction of UV and visible light with a sample, including transmission, reflectance & absorbance. The two major instrument classes are single-beam or double-beam spectrophotometers. More specialized equipment includes colorimeters, spectroradiometers and refractometers. Portable and microvolume spectrophotometers are also available. For the modular spectroscopy lab, explore a range of light sources for combination with a spectrograph/spectrometer and optics. Find the best UV-Vis spectroscopy products in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Atomic Force Microscopy / Scanning Tunneling MicroscopyAtomic force microscopes (AFM) and scanning tunneling microscopes (STM) are high-resolution forms of scanning probe microscope (SPM) used to generate topological information of a sample down to the atomic scale. Instruments can generate an image of the surface topology, manipulate objects and reveal information on localized properties such as Young’s modulus, conductivity, and magnetism. High-quality STM and AFM probes optimized for your application are available, as well as other SPM-based instruments such as scanning ion conductance microscopes (SICM) & near-field scanning optical microscopes (NSOM). Find the best AFM and STM equipment in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.GC-MS GC-MS (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry) instruments and equipment are used to separate, quantify and identify mixtures of small and volatile compounds, such as polycyclic aromatics, fatty acids and alcohols. Often used in drug detection, forensic investigation and environmental analysis for pesticides and contaminants, GC-MS is a powerful addition to your lab’s analytical capabilities. GC-MS/MS instruments equipped with a qTOF or triple quadrupole analyzers can give greater sensitivity and resolution to your analysis. Find the best GC-MS instruments and equipment in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.PolymersPolymers are large molecules made up of many repeat units. Natural polymers such as DNA and proteins are essential to life, whereas synthetic polymers such as polystyrene and polyethylene are used widely due to their functionality. Typical techniques for analysis include GPC, SEC, DSC, FT-IR and NMR.BatteriesMicroscopyMicroscopy is a technique used to observe small objects in detail, from cells to materials, using light or electron microscopes. It enables researchers to examine structures with high resolution, aiding in fields such as biology, medicine, and materials science. With advanced microscopy techniques, scientists can gain insights into cellular processes, tissue structures, and material properties. Explore the best microscopy solutions in our peer-reviewed product directory, compare products, read customer reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.SpectroscopySpectroscopy is a technique that analyzes the interaction of light with matter to study molecular properties, concentrations, and structural information. Widely used in chemical, pharmaceutical, and environmental analysis, spectroscopy offers insights into molecular composition and helps identify unknown compounds. It plays a key role in quality control, research, and diagnostics. Browse our peer-reviewed product directory to compare spectroscopy tools, read reviews, and get prices directly from manufacturers.AFMSECSize exclusion chromatography (SEC) separates molecules based on size, ideal for protein purification, polymer analysis, and biopharma applications. SEC ensures precise characterization of biomolecules for research and industry. Explore peer-reviewed SEC products and compare options for your lab.UVUltraviolet (UV) light is used in a variety of applications, including disinfection, spectrophotometry, and molecular biology. UV light can damage DNA, making it a powerful tool in sterilization and in studies of mutagenesis and gene repair. Explore UV-related products in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.GrapheneGraphene is a two-dimensional structure that comprises of a hexagonal honeycomb lattice of carbon atoms. Graphene can conduct electricity and heat, is almost transparent and is 100x stronger than steel by weight.EnergyGC-MSGas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) combines the separation power of gas chromatography with the detection capabilities of mass spectrometry, allowing for the analysis of complex mixtures. It is widely used in environmental, forensic, and pharmaceutical analysis. Explore GC-MS systems in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.Fuel and Energy

Related articles

Advancements in materials characterization: From decoding polymers and battery materials to harnessing the power of atomic force microscopy