Beyond Physical Testing: Unveiling the Hidden Insights of Polymers and Composites with X-Ray Techniques

X-ray techniques, while established in other industries, are underutilized in the polymer and composite sectors despite their potential to provide critical chemical and structural insights. Often, testing in this field has centered around physical properties, but methods like X-ray fluorescence (XRF), micro-XRF (μXRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray tomography (CT) offer a wealth of information on elemental composition and internal structures that can significantly enhance material analysis. This talk provides an overview of how these analytical methods can enhance the evaluation of polymer and composite materials at various stages of production. XRF and μXRF reveal detailed information about the elemental makeup, from bulk feedstocks to fine-scale elemental mapping across surfaces. XRD identifies crystalline structures that impact material performance, while CT enables non-destructive 3D imaging of internal features, such as voids or defects, that could compromise material integrity. We will present case studies demonstrating how these x-ray methods can be integrated into polymer and composite testing. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of why these methods are key to advancing analysis in this evolving industry.