Microscopy: Optical and Electron Microscopy

Scanning Electron Microscope ZEISS EVO MA10

Based on decades of experience, we offer microscopic investigations of coals and organic materials. At our Lauta location, we specialize in maceral and microlithotype analysis of lignite. The focus here is on determining and evaluating the refining properties (briquetting ability). In Tübingen, we provide the full range of organic petrology services. We have an extensive archive of samples and preparations of organic materials from around the world.

We are also active in the field of inorganic microscopy, with a specialization in the analysis of heavy minerals. Our scanning electron microscope further enhances our service offerings by delivering high-resolution data on the surface geometry and crystallography of sample materials, surpassing the capabilities of light microscopy. In addition, increased automation in analysis leads to significant improvements in accuracy and time efficiency for certain methods. Our versatile ZEISS EVO MA 10 is well-suited for a wide range of analytical applications, addressing geological, materials science, and technical challenges. This capability is complemented by the expertise of our staff in X-ray fluorescence analysis and microchemical analysis using EDX.

Consulting & Research

Our consulting service involves extensive methods of microscopy of organic and inorganic matter.

Scanning electron microscopy for high-resolution imaging and chemical analysis of geological, material science and technical samples

Heavy mineral analysis for petrographic characterization of the sediment, determination of stratigraphic statements and provenance analysis

Investigation of light minerals with a focus on quartz and feldspar

Lignite and coal: microlithotype analysis (QMAT), maceral analysis, vitrinite reflection, xylite selection and identification

and for the stratigraphic assignment of seams, seam banks and companion horizons as well as support for research projects in the field of tertiary palaeobotany and biostratigraphy

Representation and comparison of recent and fossil spores and pollen, as a basis for e.g. stratigraphic classifications

Coking coal microscopy and characterization of natural coking coals and thermally modified coals (e.g. coal seam fires in China)

Identification of forest fire horizons in coal seams and other sedimentary sequences

Geology of fossil oil and gas (determination of composition, type and quantity of kerogen, determination of the degree of the maturity of petroleum bedrocks)

Identification and characterization of bitumen and fossil oil in rocks

Fluorescence microscopy and measurement

Microscopic evaluation of peat

Investigations and research on slag, cinder and coverings of surfaces from power plant processes

Analysis of the type, origin and microchemistry of various dusts, e.g. captured particles from blowing tests or particulate matter analysis in inhabited areas

Analysis and comparison of fossil and recent woods based on wood anatomical features in SEM

Representation of microstructures of geological, archaeological and environmentally relevant samples

Methods

We take care of the preparation of inorganic as well as organic-petrological samples for you. Our laboratory in Tübingen specializes in dry polishing for water-sensitive samples, among other things.

Sample processing (e.g. demineralization by HCl, HF)

Preparation and production of polished sections

Stereomicroscopic evaluation

Reflected-light microscopy

Fluorescence microscopy and measurement

Transmitted-light microscopy

Scanning electron microscopy

Photo documentation (scanning electron/microscopic pictures) also for technical objects

Projects

Microscopy: Study of clinker formation in power plant processes

At power plant processes the clinker formation within the scope of the flue gas line occurs at times, especially in the cyclones for fly ash separation. Such deposits have a disturbing effect on normal operation and therefore are object of further investigation.

Microscopy: QMAT – Quantitative Micropetrographic Analysis with evaluation of Textite

QMAT is a coal-petrologic investigation method for qualitative statements about refinement properties. Studied are constituents (microlithotypes) of lignite.

Microscopy: Xylite classification

Important for the construction and dimensioning of mills, which for example are installed in generating stations and refinement plants to crush coal, is the content of varieties of fossil wood in the lignite seam.

For evaluating the xylite content in lignite two methods can be used.

further projects »