Delamination analysis is essential to understand failures occurring in multilayer materials, coatings and composite structures. In many industrial sectors such as aerospace, automotive or medical devices, the separation of layers can compromise the performance, durability and safety of products.
The FILAB laboratory provides advanced delamination analysis services to identify the root causes of adhesion failure between layers, coatings or interfaces. Using state-of-the-art analytical techniques, our experts characterize the physical and chemical mechanisms responsible for delamination and support manufacturers in improving their materials and processes.
What is delamination?
Delamination refers to the separation of layers within a multilayer material, laminate, coating or composite structure. This phenomenon occurs when the adhesion between two layers becomes weaker than the mechanical, thermal or environmental stresses applied to the material.
Delamination may occur in many types of industrial materials:
- multilayer films
- composite materials
- surface coatings and protective layers
- polymer materials
- metallic parts with surface treatments
- laminated materials
When delamination occurs, it can significantly affect the mechanical strength, durability and reliability of the product.
Study of delamination phenomena: a specific expertise of the FILAB laboratory
For more than 30 years, the FILAB laboratory has had the experience and specific analytical equipment to meet the need for expertise on materials, and in part the study of delamination phenomena on all types of materials (metallic, polymer, films…). The following techniques can be solicited:
Microstructural observation by Optical Microscope and Scanning Electron Microscope
Identification of surface pollution (analysis of particles, deposits,...)
Development of surface treatment processes
Extreme surface analysis by TOF-SIMS and XPS
Study of failures and thickness defects by SEM (crack, rupture, migration, corrosion...)
Roughness analysis by AFM
Through our three levels of services – analysis, expertise and R&D support – FILAB assists companies of all sectors and sizes in solving their industrial problems, by providing its clients with the know-how and experience of its team.
Common causes of delamination in industrial materials
Several factors can lead to delamination in multilayer materials or coated surfaces. Identifying these mechanisms is essential to determine the root cause of failures.
Common causes of delamination include:
- poor adhesion between layers during manufacturing
- surface contamination before coating or bonding
- mechanical stress or fatigue
- thermal expansion mismatch between layers
- chemical degradation or corrosion
- moisture exposure or environmental ageing
- defects in coatings or laminates
- improper surface preparation
A laboratory investigation is often required to accurately determine the origin of the delamination phenomenon.
Industrial materials affected by delamination
Delamination problems can affect many materials and products used in industrial environments, particularly those composed of several layers or surface treatments.
Typical materials concerned include:
- laminated composite materials
- thin films and multilayer coatings
- polymer coatings and adhesives
- protective coatings on metals
- electronic materials and components
In these systems, the adhesion between layers plays a critical role in the overall performance of the material.
Our FAQ
Delamination is the separation of layers within a multilayer material, laminate or coated surface. It occurs when the adhesion between layers becomes weaker than the mechanical or environmental stresses applied to the material.
Delamination may result from poor adhesion, contamination at the interface, mechanical stress, thermal cycling, corrosion or manufacturing defects.
Laboratories analyze delamination using microscopy techniques such as SEM or optical microscopy combined with chemical surface analysis methods like XPS or TOF-SIMS to identify defects or contamination at the interface.
Delamination analysis helps identify the root cause of failures in multilayer materials or coatings, allowing manufacturers to improve product reliability and optimize manufacturing processes.
Delamination can affect many industries including aerospace, automotive, electronics, energy technologies and medical devices, where multilayer materials and coatings are widely used.
To obtain a quote, you can contact our team via our contact form, by phone, or by email.
Simply tell us your requirements (type of material, desired analysis, applicable standards, urgency, quantity of samples, etc.). We will then send you a personalized technical and pricing proposal within 24-48 hours.
Turnaround times vary depending on the nature of the analysis and the complexity of the expert assessment project.
However, FILAB is committed to providing fast turnaround times tailored to your industrial constraints and urgent needs.
