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Graphite Composite Specimen Preparation
(Class 1 Procedures)

Metallographic Class 1 sample preparation


Proper preparation of polymer / graphite composites is required because the properties of the matrix material and the graphite particles vary significantly in both hardness and fracture toughness. As a general rule, the most difficult component to prepare in composite materials are the most brittle component (e.g. graphite particles). To properly polymer-graphite composites, initial sectioning must minimize damage. This is generally accomplished with a fine grit diamond wafering blade. Proceeding preparation steps must not add additional damage, this is accomplished by a matching the proper abrasive to to the proper polishing surface.

SECTIONING

Diamond Wafering blade - fine grit / low concentration

MOUNTING

Castable Mounting with Epoxy or Acrylic resins

POLISHING

Abrasive/surface

Lubricant

Force/ sample

Speed
(Head/base)

Time

Individual
Force mode

Central Force
mode

240 grit SiC paper

Water

5 lbs

200/200 rpm

Until plane

 

360 grit SiC paper
600 grit SiC paper

Water

5-10 lbs

200/200 rpm

1 minute
1 minute

Metallographic individual polishing force

6 um DIAMAT diamond on TEXPAN polishing pad

DIALUBE Purple Extender

3-5 lbs

200/200 rpm

3 minutes

Metallographic individual polishing force

1 um DIAMAT diamond ATLANTIS polishing pad

DIALUBE Purple Extender

3-5 lbs

200/200 rpm

2 minutes

Metallographic individual polishing force

0.05 um NANOMETER Alumina on MICROPAD/ MICROPAD 2 polishing pad

 

3-5 lbs

100/100 rpm

45 seconds

Metallographic individual polishing force

*Required for central polishing force. Click here for more information on central vs. individual polishing force polishing.

Metallographic micrograph of graphite composite

Polymer / Graphite Composite, as polished, 200X (B.F.)

ETCHING

Common Etchants
PACE Technologies Recommended Etchants

PACE Technologies Etchant Database

CAUTION:Safety is very important when etching. Be sure to wear the appropriate protective clothing and observe all WARNINGS on chemical manufacuters SDS (Safety Data Sheets). Also review the COMMENTS and CONDITIONS Section for each etchant.


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