Analysis/Characterization

3D Printed Material Analysis

3D printed materials behave differently when compared to conventional manufactured materials. We analyze the mechanical properties of 3D printable materials in order to identify the most suitable one for any application. Our characterization suite includes both optical 3D scanning, optical analysis, and scanning electron analysis. Further, through partnership with Michigan State University’s Ceramic and Composite Center, we can characterize the thermal and mechanical properties of the manufactured part.

➜ Additive Manufacturing

Characterization of Coatings

Principle of the LAwave® method using laser induced surface waves

Applied analysis of synthesized coatings and thin films is critical to ensure product performance. Fraunhofer USA CMW offers a wide array of analysis and characterization techniques. Besides standard analysis options such as

Microscopy (optical, stereo, SEM, digital)
Optical Spectroscopy (UV-Vis-NIR, FTIR)
X-ray based (XPS, XRD, SEM/EDS)
Tribology
Electrochemistry (...)

Fraunhofer USA CMW is proud to offer an unique LAwave® system for fast and non-destructive characterization of coatings and surfaces. Together with our partner Fraunhofer Institute for Material and Beam Technology (IWS) and Fraunhofer USA Center for Manufacturing Innovation (CMI) we offer the sale of the systems on the US market.

➜ Coating Development

Next-Gen Water Contaminant Detection

Water contaminant detection is a cutting-edge area of focus at Fraunhofer USA CMW, where we are developing advanced technologies to address the growing challenge of pollutants like PFAS in water systems. Our innovative approach integrates advanced and novel analytical methods to enable sustainable and high-performance detection and destruction of contaminants.

One of our key projects, funded by the Water Research Foundation (WRF), involves the development of microfluidic cells for rapid PFAS analysis and destruction, combined with ion chromatography for precise contaminant identification. Additionally, we are utilizing novel photolysis technologies to achieve rapid quantification of PFAS in water, offering a potential alternative to traditional combustion-based methods. By integrating these solutions, we are working toward scalable systems for industrial, agricultural, and municipal water treatment applications. Our research is conducted in collaboration with leading academic institutions and industry partners including Shimadzu Scientific Instruments Inc., ensuring practical and impactful advancements in water quality monitoring.

➜ Water Treatment