SCANDIPLEX

SCANDIPLEX Hardener: The Significance of Precise Embedding in Metallography

In metallography, proper working conditions are of utmost importance. The hardener plays a crucial role in metallographic embedding as it is responsible for curing the embedding medium in which the sample is embedded, thereby creating a solid matrix. The hardener is a component of the embedding medium, typically an epoxy resin. During the embedding process, the hardener is added to the resin to initiate curing. This curing is a chemical process that transitions the resin from a liquid or gel-like state to a solid state, creating a stable environment surrounding and stabilizing the sample. Throughout the curing process, the hardener binds the particles of the embedding medium together, enclosing the metallic sample. This holds the sample in a stable position and protects it from external influences. This is particularly crucial since improper embedding could lead to distortions or damage to the sample, compromising the accuracy of microscopic examinations. Additionally, the hardener allows control over the curing time of the embedding medium. Depending on the examination requirements and the properties of the embedding medium, the curing time can be varied. In many cases, the curing time is set at 50 to 60 minutes, enabling rapid and efficient sample preparation. The hardener also plays a role in minimizing the formation of gas bubbles in the embedding medium. Proper mixing and dosing of the hardener components ensure that the embedding medium remains largely bubble-free during curing. This is essential as gas bubbles can affect the visibility and accuracy of microscopic examinations. Designed for these tasks, SCAN-DIA has developed the SCANDIPLEX Hardener. SCANDIPLEX is a cold-curing epoxy embedding resin that cures within a time frame of 50 to 60 minutes. The embedding medium is transparent yellow, allowing excellent bonding to the sample. The results are free from gas bubbles, a crucial aspect in metallography. SCANDIPLEX Hardener facilitates the creation of a stable embedding medium that encloses and protects the sample. This is particularly important as improper embedding can lead to distortions and damage to the samples, subsequently skewing the results. SCANDIPLEX Hardener is specifically suitable for geometrically complicated parts, as frequently encountered in metallography. It enables precise and efficient embedding of even complex-shaped samples. Moreover, SCANDIPLEX Hardener is ideal for vacuum embedding, where the removal of trapped air is of utmost importance to ensure a clear view of microscopic structures. In conclusion, SCANDIPLEX Hardener is an indispensable tool for metallography. Its ability to ensure stable embedding, especially in complex samples and vacuum techniques, significantly contributes to enhancing the quality and accuracy of research results in this crucial field of materials science.