Chemical Analysis with METL
Chemical composition can dictate quality, performance, and susceptibility of your materials to certain failure mechanisms.
we can determine the compositions of your metals, alloys, and other materials utilizing a variety of spectroscopic Techniques and classical wet chemical methods.
Optical Emission Spectroscopy (OES)
OES can perform rapid chemical analysis of a wide range of metals and alloys using arc spark excitation.
Applicable Specifications
Fed Test Standard 151B, Method 112.2
Inductively Coupled Plasma - Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES)
A precise and powerful chemical analysis method, ICP can quantify major and trace concentrations of most elements in a wide range of materials.
Applicable Specifications
ASTM E1479
LECO Combustion
LECO combustion methods determine the concentrations of carbon and sulfur in metals - two essential elements in many alloys.
Applicable Specifications
ASTM E1019
Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS)
EDS is a non-destructive chemical analysis method utilizing our scanning electron microscope (SEM). While it cannot provide the same level of precision as other methods, it can distinguish between alloy families and provide vital data on undersize samples and when destructive testing is not an option.
Applicable Specifications
ASTM E1508
Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR)
FTIR spectroscopy can identify primary organic bonds in plastics, rubbers, and other organic materials. Using attenuated total reflectance (ATR), qualitative results can determine the family of your material.
Applicable Specifications
ASTM E1252
See Polymer Testing

Why METL
We provide third-party testing to ensure viability and reliability
Affordable
As an independent laboratory we have the freedom to offer extremely competitive rates without compromising our integrity.
Trusted Knowledge
With Over 45 years of service to customers of many industries, you can trust that you are getting the highest quality results.
Fast Service
We work with your schedule. Need your results by a specific date? Let us know and we will do our best to accommodate your requirements.
Commonly Asked Questions
Is chemical analysis destructive?
Yes, chemical analysis techniques can be destructive. In some cases, OES can be performed with only a small burn to the surface, which may be acceptable for some parts intended for further use. EDS and FTIR can be performed non-destructively depending on part geometry.
ICP or OES, which is right for me?
For many materials, both techniques are acceptable. Due to the price difference, we attempt to perform OES whenever possible. Some materials, such as magnesium require ICP regardless of the sample size.
How much material is needed for ICP?
For steels, stainless steels, and nickel alloys 0.6 grams are required to measure all alloying elements. For alloys that do not require carbon or sulfur measurement, such as aluminum and magnesium, only 0.1 gram is required.