metallianalytiikan

Metallianalytiikka is the field that determines the composition, structure, and properties of metals and metal-containing materials using analytical techniques. It covers elemental analysis, phase identification, microstructural characterization, and trace-element determination, supporting quality control, material development, and research in metallurgy.

Common methods include X-ray fluorescence (XRF) for bulk composition; inductively coupled plasma techniques (ICP-OES, ICP-MS) for multi-element trace analysis; atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS); electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) for micro-scale elemental mapping; X-ray diffraction (XRD) for phase identification; and various spectroscopic techniques. Sample preparation and calibration are essential components of the process.

Workflows involve sampling, sample preparation, measurement, data interpretation, and reporting, with careful quality assurance and quality control. Analysts validate methods, use reference materials, and adhere to national and international standards. Results inform alloy design, production control, failure analysis, and regulatory compliance.

Applications span steel and alloy production, mining and ore processing, metal recycling, coating and corrosion studies, and environmental monitoring of metal contaminants. The field also supports research in new materials, electronics, and catalysis where precise metal content and phases influence performance.

Metallianalytiikka laboratories typically operate under accredited quality systems (for example ISO/IEC 17025) and follow standards from bodies such as ISO, EN, and ASTM. The field is closely related to metallography and materials science and relies on interdisciplinary knowledge of chemistry, physics, and materials engineering.