3D characterisation of composite materials

Understanding and mastering your composites and polymers

Our advanced analysis laboratory supports you in the characterisation and testing of composite materials, whether they have a polymer, metallic, or ceramic matrix.

We combine cutting-edge technologies and scientific expertise to meet your needs, whether for routine testing, process validation, or in-depth studies within the framework of development projects.

As a trusted partner, we are committed to helping you guarantee the quality of your parts, anticipate failures, optimise your manufacturing and assembly processes, and accelerate your innovations.

Our composite analysis services

We help you understand and master your materials through a wide range of services:

  • Microstructure analysis: matrix homogeneity, fiber orientation and distribution, porosity rate
  • Interface control: fiber/matrix adhesion, quality of transition zones
  • Internal defect detection: porosity, cracks, delaminations, inclusions
  • Chemical and structural characterisation: local heterogeneities, aging
  • Residual stress and damage assessment
  • 4D monitoring: evolution of microstructures under mechanical, thermal, or environmental stresses
  • Failure analysis: identification of the causes of breakage, wear, or loss of adhesion
  • Quality control & process validation: molding, filament winding, RTM, infusion, additive manufacturing, bonding, and assembly

Scientific support for your developments and processes

We put our scientific and industrial expertise at your side to transform your ideas into concrete solutions and your composite materials into true performance drivers.

Our R&D support services

  • Co-design of experiments tailored to your specific challenges and composites
    Advanced multi-scale testing to understand damage mechanisms (cracking, delamination, aging)
  • In-depth analysis and interpretation of results directly related to your industrial applications
  • Process optimization and validation: matrix, reinforcements, surface treatments
  • Materials expertise and recommendations to improve durability and reliability
    Customized R&D partnership, from exploratory studies to industrial validation

Case studies of composite materials and polymers

Type of composite materials analysed

We work with a wide range of composite materials, in the form of finished parts, test specimens, or complex structures:

  • Polymer matrix composites: carbon fiber/epoxy, glass fiber/polyester, natural fibers/biopolymers
  • Metal matrix composites (MMCs): aluminum-SiC, titanium-TiB₂, particle- or fiber-reinforced alloys
  • Ceramic matrix composites (CMCs): SiC/SiC, C/SiC, reinforced alumina
  • Hybrid composites: sandwich structures, multi-material structures, metal-polymer composites
  • Coatings and protective layers: thermal barriers (TBCs), wear-resistant coatings, reinforced polymer layers

The advantages of NOVITOM

Reliable and rapid analyses

Analyses carried out on state-of-the-art equipment by a team of experts.

Tailor-made approach

An approach tailored to your constraints, with a technical contact person who supports you from start to finish.

Clear results

Actionable results thanks to detailed reports and 3D visuals that facilitate decision-making.

Our techniques for characterising polymers and composites

Non-destructive 3D characterisation

  • Micro-tomography (µCT): 3D imaging with micrometer resolution
  • Synchrotron micro-tomography (SR-µCT): ultrafast and high-precision 3D
  • In situ tomography (4D): dynamic tracking under stress
  • Synchrotron nano-tomography: resolution down to 50 nm

 

Chemical Analysis and Elemental Mapping

  • Micro-X-ray Fluorescence (µXRF): 2D, non-destructive chemical mapping
  • SEM/EDX: surface observation and 2D chemical mapping
  • X-ray Spectroscopy: oxidation state, monitoring of chemical transformations
  • DSC, TGA, DMA :  stability, phase transition

Nano and atomic characterisation

  • X-ray diffraction/micro-diffraction: matrix crystallinity
  • AFM: surface topography, roughness, local mechanical properties
  • SAXS: characterization of nanopowders, nanometric fillers
  • Synchrotron nanotomography: resolution down to 50 nm
  • AFM-IR/Nano-FTIR: nanometer-scale chemical mapping
  • Profilometry
  • TEM: fiber/matrix interface observations