MET Series

Metallography is the study of the physical structure and components of metals, by using microscopy. Many different microscopy techniques are used in metallographic analysis. Prepared specimens should be examined with the unaided eye after etching to detect any visible areas that have responded to the etchant differently from the norm as a guide to where microscopical examination should be employed. Light optical microscopy (LOM) examination should always be performed prior to any electron metallographic (EM) technique, as these are more time-consuming to perform and the instruments are much more expensive.
Further, certain features can be best observed with the LOM, e.g., the natural color of a constituent can be seen with the LOM but not with EM systems. Also, image contrast of  icrostructures at relatively low magnifications, e.g.,

MATERIAL SCIENCE / METALLOGRAPHY

Reflected light microscopy is the method for observation of specimens that remain opaque even when ground to a thickness of few microns. The range of specimens falling into this category is incredibly wide and includes most metals, ores, ceramics, many polymers, semiconductors (unprocessed silicon, wafers, and integrated circuits), coal, plastics, paint, paper, wood, leather, glass inclusions, and a wide variety of specific materials.