Positive Material Identification, commonly known as PMI or Comparative Material Identification (CMI) can be performed using several test methods such as XRF, OES, LIBS, ICP, etc.
Depending on the client requirements, LMATS can provide a simple non-destructive method called XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy) using our range of analysers such as Thermofisher Niton XLT 818, Innov-X Alpha, OXFORD Instruments X-MET 7500 and others. These are accepted by various end clients, particularly in the petrochemical industry where the precision results are paramount.
LMATS is NATA accredited for portable XRF analysis (see our accreditation for more details).
Portable XRF analysis only enables identification of the principal alloying elements. In many cases this is sufficient for a reasonable estimate of the material/alloy grade. The method cannot detect carbon and has limited accuracy, so it should not be exclusively relied on where precise analysis is needed, for example where carbon is critical for material strength. For detailed steel material identification, ask LMATS about our full chemical analysis methods and supplementary mechanical testing services. Supplementary tests can provide you with detailed material quality assessment and grade confirmation.
ISO 17025 & ISO 17020 accredited