Microsampling and Microanalysis of Metals

Abstract

In studies of composition gradients in diffusion samples, or for identifying inclusions, it is often desired to obtain analytical samples from minute and exactly located positions in experimental material. This paper deals with the design and use of a microshaper using a diamond tool to take linear cuts separated by as little as 0.02 mm. A hand‐driven drill can be used for sampling circular areas of diameter greater than 0.1 mm. The chips, which may weigh as little as 0.1 microgram, are picked up on an electrified quartz fiber and centrifuged into a capillary which is evacuated and sealed for annealing. A precision x‐ray diffraction photograph is then obtained from the annealed chip, and the calculated lattice parameter used as an index of composition. Two examples of the use of the technique are given.