Laboratory analysis and expertise of surface treatments
Securing the performance of critical surface treatments
Surface treatments play a key role in the protection, reliability, and performance of components used in aerospace, space and defense.
Anodizing, passivation, coatings, heat or chemical treatments determine corrosion resistance, adhesion, mechanical performance, and the durability of materials in harsh environments.
There are several surface treatment and surface expertise techniques:
surface treatment analysis and expertise techniques
Surface treatments and coatings by wet process: chemical baths (electroless nickel, copper, etc.), electroplating deposits, galvanizing process…
Surface treatment and coating by dry process: thermal spraying, plasma, vapor-phase deposition (CVD and PVC), shot blasting…
The FILAB laboratory analyzes your surface treatments and coatings to ensure their proper functionality
Thanks to our dual expertise in chemistry and materials science, the FILAB laboratory offers analysis services for all types of surface treatments (organic or inorganic) and for all types of materials (metal, glass, polymer, ceramic, etc.).
Our laboratory addresses industrial surface treatment challenges through the following services:
Surface treatment expertise
Failure analysis and expertise: surface corrosion, identification of process or implementation defects...
Failure analysis and expertise: surface corrosion, identification of process or implementation defects...
Verification of treatment compliance (anodizing, passivation, coatings)
Verification of treatment compliance (anodizing, passivation, coatings)
Measurement of thickness, composition and homogeneity
Measurement of thickness, composition and homogeneity
Surface analysis and contamination
Surface analysis and contamination
Detection and identification of surface contamination
Detection and identification of surface contamination
Characterization of surface condition before or after treatment
Characterization of surface condition before or after treatment
Assessment of treatment/material/environment compatibility
Assessment of treatment/material/environment compatibility
to go further...
Our techniques
SEM-EDX
ICP-AES
SEO
AFM
Our surface treatment analysis and expertise capabilities are also diverse, depending on the nature of the treatment: Scanning Electron Microscope (MEB-FEG EDX), TOF-SIMS analysis, XPS for morphological examinations; ICP AES, ICP MS or Ion Chromatography for chemical composition analysis.
If you would like more information about our surface treatment analyses, contact us!
Client Qualifications
The FILAB laboratory has obtained the DASSAULT AVIATION approval. This approval makes FILAB a reliable partner for aerospace manufacturers.
Several years ago, FILAB obtained the Laboratory Qualification from the SAFRAN group under procedures GRP-0087, GRM-0123 and TTS-MOP-004.
This qualification is regularly renewed following audits carried out by Safran at our premises.
Learn more about FILAB
FAQ
A surface treatment is a process applied to the surface of a material or object in order to improve its properties, appearance, or functionality. These treatments can be carried out on various types of materials such as metals, plastics, ceramics, glass, and more. They are commonly used in many industries, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, medical, and many others.
Surface treatments can be classified into different categories depending on their objectives. Here are some common examples of surface treatments:
Corrosion protection: Some materials are susceptible to corrosion when exposed to moisture, air, or aggressive environments. Surface treatments such as galvanizing, anodizing, or chrome plating are used to create a protective layer on the surface, thereby reducing corrosion.
Coatings: These are used to improve the surface properties of the material. For example, applying non-stick coatings for pans, wear-resistant coatings for tools, or optical coatings for lenses.
Decoration and aesthetics: Surface treatments can be used to enhance the appearance of objects by adding patterns, colors, or special finishes.
Improving mechanical properties: Some treatments can increase the strength, hardness, or toughness of materials, making them better suited to specific applications.
Surface cleaning and preparation: Before applying certain coatings or manufacturing processes, it is sometimes necessary to clean and prepare the surface to ensure optimal adhesion.
Modifying electrical or thermal conductivity: Surface treatments can be used to increase or reduce a material's electrical or thermal conductivity depending on the requirements.
