XPS or ESCA Surface Analysis
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Chemical composition
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Surface chemistry after chemical exposure to treat surface for bonding or other surface treatment
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Silane coupling agent coverage on surface for adhesive bonding
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Anti-reflective coating analysis by depth profiling of elements
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Study leaching of glass
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Measure profile of chemically-hardened glass such as potassium substitution for sodium
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Identify cause of etch-attack of glass
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Measure surface contamination
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Evaluate glass microspheres, frits, and fibers for adhesive bonding by examining for alkali surface chemistry
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Distinguish E and S fiberglass
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Characterize the chemistry of silicates and silica gels
Microscopy (Optical and SEM) Analysis
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Locate inclusions, such as graphitic inclusions, common in “high-purity” quartz materials
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Examine anti-reflective coatings for uniformity and imperfections, including reaction zones between sub-stoichiometric layers
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Examine etching effects
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Examine optical coupling interfaces for defects and contamination
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Cross-section analysis of optical couplers and glass encapsulated devices
Thermal Analysis
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TMA or Thermomechanical Analysis or Dilatometry:
- Measure thermal expansion
- Measure softening temperature under modest loads
- Measure the glass transition temperature
- Measure the melting temperature
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TGA or Thermogravimetry:
- Measure decomposition of silica gels
- Measure weight of fiberglass in FRP and PCB materials
- Measure weight of silica and aluminosilicate particle fill in plastics, adhesives, paint, and sealants
- Measure weight of organic coatings on optical fibers or fiberglass
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DMA or Dynamic Mechanical Analysis:
- Measure storage modulus of FRP or fiberglass reinforced plastic as a function of temperature
- Measure loss modulus of FRP as a function of temperature to find the glass transition temperature
- Measure loss modulus due to viscoelasticity of FRP as a function of temperature
- Measure above for silica-filled polymers
FTIR or Infrared Spectroscopy Analysis
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Identify organic coating on glass fibers
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Check organic coating uniformity on glass fibers
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Identify reflective organic films on glass window panes
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Examine adhesive bonds to rubber and elastomers
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