Ceramic testing and analysis laboratory

Characterization of materials Problem solving R&D support
More than 140 people
More than 140 people at your service
5200 m² laboratory
5200 m² laboratory + 99% of services are provided in-house
Accredited laboratory
Accredited laboratory COFRAC ISO 17025

As a manufacturer, you want to carry out ceramics characterization

FILAB laboratory supports you in the analysis and characterization of ceramics (raw, processed, or defective) by providing technical expertise and state-of-the-art analytical facilities. Our team of ceramic characterization specialists works to ensure the quality of your materials and solve your technical challenges.

Ceramics characterization : a FILAB laboratory expertise

Why choose FILAB for ceramics characterization ?

The FILAB laboratory provides analytical and characterization services for ceramics, all of which can be adapted to your needs :

our services

Thermal analysis

Determination of mesoporosity

Mechanical testing: bending, compression, Young’s modulus, fracture toughness determination (SEVNB method), Vickers hardness

Ceramic analysis in accordance with current standards

We perform analysis and characterization of ceramics in accordance with current standards.

Please contact us to discuss your specific requirements.

standards

Porosity: ISO 15901-1, ISO 12154, ISO 3953

Mechanical testing: NF-EN 843-1, NF-EN 20504, NF-EN 843-2, ISO 23146

Specific Surface Area (BET): ISO 15901-2 and ISO 9277 (volumetric mass)

Chemical analysis: ISO 13383-1

Particle size analysis – Powder flowability: ISO 13320, ISO 23235, and ISO 14629

XRD Analysis: ISO 13952-2

Our technical resources

XRD

OM

SEM-EDS

Laser Particle Size Analyzer

Sieving

DSC

TGA

ICP

DMA

Goniometer

Find out more about FILAB laboratory chemical analysis services : click here

Which industrial sectors use ceramics?

The automotive industry uses advanced ceramics to manufacture engines, brakes and electronic components for vehicles.
The aerospace industry uses ceramics to manufacture components for aircraft engines (turbines).
The electronics industry uses them in the manufacture of electronic components such as capacitors, resistors and semiconductors.
The medical industry uses ceramics to manufacture dental implants, orthopaedic implants and surgical instruments.

FILAB works with players from these industries to carry out ceramic analyses that meet their specific requirements.

What is ceramic characterization and analysis ?

Ceramic characterization involves assessing the material's identity: its chemical composition, crystal structure, microstructure (grain size, porosity), as well as its physical and mechanical properties.

This material analysis also covers thermal properties, such as heat resistance and dimensional stability at high temperatures. This is a crucial step in understanding the material's behavior and optimizing its in-service performance.

For example, characterizing a technical ceramic helps ensure it meets specific application requirements (thermal resistance, chemical inertness, mechanical hardness, etc.) or identify the root causes of potential failures.

FAQ

What types of ceramics can FILAB analyze?

We analyze a wide range of technical ceramics, including:

  • Oxide ceramics (e.g. alumina, zirconia)
  • Non-oxide ceramics (e.g. carbides, nitrides, borides)
  • Bio-ceramics (for medical applications)
  • Glass-ceramics and composite materials

Whether raw, sintered, or coated, we can test it.

What properties can you measure on ceramic materials?

Our lab can assess:

  • Chemical composition (major and trace elements)
  • Porosity and density
  • Microstructure (grain size, inclusions, surface defects)
  • Crystalline phases via XRD
  • Fracture and crack origin (SEM failure analysis)

Thermal behavior (dilatometry, TGA/DSC)

Can you perform failure analysis on cracked or broken ceramics?

Yes. We specialize in ceramic failure analysis. Using SEM-EDX, XRD, and cross-section techniques, we can identify root causes such as:

  • Incomplete sintering
  • Phase incompatibility
  • Surface contamination

Manufacturing defects (microcracks, inclusions)

Can I get help interpreting the results?

Yes. FILAB can assist with R&D, material selection, raw material validation, and performance benchmarking of new ceramic formulations.

Do you test ceramic coatings or treated surfaces?

Yes. We analyze ceramic surfaces treated by laser marking, plasma spray, glazing, or coating processes. We can evaluate adhesion, uniformity, surface chemistry, and microstructure.

How does microstructure influence the characterization of a ceramic?

The microstructure of a ceramic, including grain size and pore distribution, directly influences its mechanical properties, thermal resistance, and service behavior.

What defects can be detected during ceramic analysis?

Ceramic analysis can detect cracks, inclusions, heterogeneities, or porosities that can weaken the material and limit its lifespan.

What does thermal characterization of ceramics involve?

Thermal characterization measures high-temperature resistance, thermal conductivity, and coefficient of expansion to predict the material's behavior under extreme conditions.

What is ceramic testing?

Ceramic testing involves mechanical, chemical, and microstructural analyses to assess the quality, reliability, and compliance of a ceramic material.

Where can I have a ceramic product analyzed?

A ceramic product can be analyzed in a specialized laboratory like FILAB, equipped to perform comprehensive tests: composition, microstructure, thermal, and mechanical properties.

What is a ceramic laboratory?

A ceramic laboratory is a center of expertise dedicated to ceramic analysis and characterization, using advanced techniques (XRD, SEM, TGA, DSC) to support manufacturers.

What are the disadvantages of ceramics?

The main disadvantage is brittleness: ceramics have poor impact resistance and exhibit sudden fracture in the event of cracking or excessive stress.

What are ceramics?

Ceramic is a clay material fired at very high temperatures. Ceramics are used for their resistance to heat, their hardness and their ability to be shaped easily.

More generally, many non-metallic and inorganic materials now fall within the field of technical ceramics. They are used in a wide range of applications, including medical devices.

The filab advantages
A highly qualified team
A highly qualified team
Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests
Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests
A COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited laboratory
A COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited laboratory
(Staves available on www.cofrac.com - Accreditation number: 1-1793)
A complete analytical facility of 5,200m²
A complete analytical facility of 5,200m²
Tailor-made support
Tailor-made support
Video debriefing available with the expert
Video debriefing available with the expert
Anaïs DECAUX Customer Support Manager
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