Chemical Analysis of Metal Alloys
Chemical Analysis of Metal Alloys and Metals at APM Laboratory in Turin
Chemical analysis of metal alloys is essential for ensuring the quality, composition, and performance of materials in various industrial sectors, including metallurgy, mechanical component manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and advanced materials production. These analyses determine the chemical composition, alloying elements, and impurities while evaluating the physical and mechanical properties of alloys according to national and international standards. All tests are conducted in compliance with the most rigorous reference standards, including UNI, EN, ISO, ASTM, and DIN, or based on customer specifications for specific requirements.
The main chemical analysis techniques applied to metal alloys include Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES), Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), and various spectrophotometric analyses. These advanced methods provide detailed data on the chemical composition of alloys, enabling companies to optimize production processes, monitor material quality, and ensure compliance with international regulations.
Advanced Technologies: ICP-OES and ICP-MS
Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES) is a cutting-edge analytical technique for the quantitative and qualitative determination of chemical elements across a wide range of matrices. This method is highly valued for its precision, sensitivity, and ability to simultaneously analyze multiple elements.
How ICP Spectrometry Works
- Sample Preparation: The material is dissolved in a known volume of solution using appropriate acid digestion or acid mixtures.
- Nebulization and Ionization: The solution is nebulized into an argon plasma torch generated by radio frequencies, allowing the ionization of the elements present.
- Analysis and Quantification: The emitted light from the ions is analyzed to determine the chemical composition of the sample with high sensitivity and precision.
Features and Benefits of ICP-OES
High Sensitivity
Allows the detection of trace elements at concentrations below 1 ppm, making it ideal for detailed and precise analyses.
Multi-Element Analysis
ICP-OES can simultaneously determine the concentration of dozens of elements, significantly reducing analysis time.
Versatility
Applicable to a wide range of matrices, including metals, alloys, water, soils, chemical solutions, and industrial materials.
Speed and Accuracy
Analyses are performed quickly and accurately, thanks to calibration with certified reference standards.
Chemical Analysis Services for Metal Alloys
With our technical expertise and state-of-the-art instrumentation, APM provides in-depth analysis of various types of metal alloys:
Carbon and Sulfur Determination
Using specialized analyzers, we precisely measure the carbon and sulfur content—critical elements that influence the mechanical and chemical properties of alloys.
Determination of Hydrogen, Oxygen, and Nitrogen
These elements can compromise the quality of metal alloys, causing brittleness and other issues. Accurate analysis allows for monitoring and controlling these parameters to ensure materials meet required standards.
Analysis of Various Metal Matrices
We offer detailed analysis for a wide range of metallic materials, including:
â—‹ Carbon steels, alloy steels, and stainless steels.
â—‹ Cast iron and hard metals.
â—‹ Aluminum, copper, zinc, cobalt, nickel, and titanium alloys.
Quality Control for Welding and Brazing Alloys
We ensure the reliability and quality of alloys used in joining processes by examining their chemical composition and mechanical performance.
Analysis of Solid and Aqueous Samples
We conduct chemical analysis on soils, rocks, industrial effluents, electroplating baths, and aqueous or non-aqueous solutions, providing a comprehensive assessment of analyzed matrices.
Water Analysis
â—‹ Verification of drinking water quality according to current regulations.
â—‹ Monitoring of wastewater and process effluents to ensure environmental compliance.
Specific Chemical Analysis of Metal Alloys
Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES) can be applied to a wide variety of metals and alloys due to its versatility and sensitivity. This technique enables the analysis of both common metals (such as carbon steels, stainless steels, and cast iron) and specialized alloys, including aluminum, copper, zinc, nickel, titanium, cobalt, and hard metals. It is also ideal for detecting trace elements or higher concentrations, ensuring reliable and detailed results for industrial, environmental, and advanced research applications.
- Carbon Steels and Alloy Steels – Determination of steel composition to optimize mechanical properties and corrosion resistance.
- Stainless Steels and High-Alloy Steels – Analysis to determine chromium, nickel, and molybdenum content, which influence corrosion resistance.
- Aluminum Alloys – Analysis to determine magnesium, silicon, and other alloying elements, which provide lightweight properties and strength.
- Copper and Brass Alloys – Composition control of copper and zinc, essential for durability and electrical conductivity.
- Cast Iron – Determination of key cast iron components, such as carbon and silicon, to control fusibility and strength.
- Titanium and Nickel Alloys – Analysis to detect elements that enhance high-temperature and corrosion resistance.
- Hard Metals (Carbide Alloys) – Evaluation of hardness and wear resistance properties in carbide-based materials.
- Cobalt Alloys – Used primarily in extreme environments, the chemical analysis of these alloys is essential to ensure compliance with resistance and hardness standards.
Applications of the ICP-OES Technique
METALWORKING AND AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR
Determination of metallic elements in alloys, steels, and materials used in industrial production.
ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING
Analysis of wastewater, soil, industrial emissions, and environmental contaminants to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
CHEMICAL INDUSTRY
Purity control of chemical solutions and raw materials.
FOOD AND PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY
Detection of heavy metals in food and pharmaceutical products to ensure consumer safety.
ADVANCED MATERIALS
Study and characterization of new materials for aerospace, electronics, and advanced research applications.
Contact Us for More Information
If you are looking for a specialized laboratory for water titration or residual moisture determination in liquid and solid samples, APM is your ideal choice. We provide analysis solutions that comply with international standards, tailored to meet the specific needs of your company.
Contact us today to find out how we can support your business. Request a personalized quote and rely on our expertise.