All posts by 27481873

Conferences

Barnett Technical Services at ECS 2025: Advancing Micro Sample Handling, Thermal Analysis, and Raman Microscopy

Barnett Technical Services (BTS) is excited to exhibit at the Electrochemical Society (ECS) Meeting 2025, the premier event for electrochemistry and solid-state science. Join us from May 18-22 in Montréal, Canada, at booth 106 to explore groundbreaking solutions in micro sample handling, thermal analysis, and Raman microscopy.

Revolutionizing Micro Sample Handling with MicroSupport Micromanipulators

Precise micromanipulation is now effortless with MicroSupport’s advanced systems. These micromanipulators provide unmatched motion control, allowing researchers to handle microscopic objects with incredible accuracy.

  • Retrieve and manipulate micro samples with ease
  • Ideal for electronics, pharmaceuticals, and materials research
  • Equipped with a zoom microscope, motorized XYZ stage, and software-driven motion control

Whether you need to remove contaminants, analyze microscopic structures, or handle delicate materials, MicroSupport technology ensures precision and efficiency. BTS, an authorized distributor, offers full access to these revolutionary tools.

Hot Disk®: Industry-Leading Thermal Analyzers

Understanding thermal properties is crucial for research and quality control. Hot Disk® AB, a global leader in thermal analysis, provides advanced solutions to measure:

  • Thermal Conductivity
  • Thermal Diffusivity
  • Specific Heat Capacity

Hot Disk® instruments are designed for flexibility and accuracy, ensuring optimal results for material characterization. BTS is proud to bring these world-class analyzers to researchers and engineers worldwide.

SOL Raman Microscopes: Advanced Spectroscopy Solutions

Raman microscopy is transforming chemical and structural analysis. SOL Instruments specializes in high-performance Confocal Raman Microscopes, offering:

  • Precise molecular and elemental analysis
  • Advanced spectroscopy solutions for research and industry
  • Reliable and innovative tools for material characterization

As an authorized distributor, BTS provides direct access to SOL’s industry-leading Raman microscopes, ensuring researchers have the best tools for their applications.

Explore the Future of Electrochemical Research at ECS 2025

ECS 2025 is a must-attend event for professionals in electrochemistry and solid-state science. This event offers:

  • A world-class technical program with expert-led presentations and panel discussions
  • Opportunities to network with scientists, engineers, and industry leaders
  • A cutting-edge exhibition showcasing the latest research and technology

Visit Barnett Technical Services at Booth 106

Meet our team and discover how our micromanipulators, thermal analyzers, and Raman microscopes can enhance your research.

Learn More:

We look forward to seeing you in Montréal!

Conferences

Barnett Technical Services at SPIE Defense and Commercial Sensing 2025: Showcasing MicroSupport Micromanipulators

Barnett Technical Services (BTS) is excited to be exhibiting at SPIE Defense and Commercial Sensing 2025, the premier global event for sensing technologies in defense and commercial applications. Join us from April 13-17 in Orlando, FL, and visit us at booth 616 to explore advanced MicroSupport micromanipulators, designed to revolutionize micro sample handling.

Revolutionize Micro Sample Handling with MicroSupport Micromanipulators

MicroSupport’s micromanipulators are transforming micro sample handling in R&D and industry. These systems offer unmatched motion control, enabling precise manipulation of even the most delicate microscopic objects.

Imagine retrieving minute particles with pinpoint accuracy or processing specific areas on a sample with ease. MicroSupport makes it possible! This technology is ideal for a wide range of applications, from removing foreign contaminants in electronics and pharmaceuticals to analyzing microscopic crystals.

By combining a microscope with a MicroSupport micromanipulator, specialized micro-tools, and a stable environment, researchers achieve unparalleled performance in micro manipulation tasks. Barnett Technical Services, an authorized MicroSupport distributor, provides access to this comprehensive suite of tools, empowering you to tackle even the most demanding micro-object manipulation tasks.

Technical Activities at SPIE DCS

At this meeting, Steve Barnett is a Conference Co-Chair of Conference 13449 “Next-Generation Spectroscopic Technologies XVII” being held on April 14/15.  Dr. Barnett is also presenting some work of Soar Optics titled “Rapid surface imaging for dedicated process monitoring” (paper 13449-2) on April 14th at 9 AM in Tallahassee 2, Ballroom Level.

Beyond the Booth: Exploring SPIE Defense and Commercial Sensing 2025

SPIE Defense + Commercial Sensing is the leading global event focused on sensors, infrared technology, laser systems, spectral imaging, radar, lidar, and emerging sensing technologies. Attendees will have the opportunity to:

  • Discover the latest advancements in sensing and imaging technologies for defense and commercial applications.
  • Engage with industry experts and researchers to discuss groundbreaking innovations.
  • Explore a world-class exhibition featuring cutting-edge solutions in materials, components, systems, and analytics.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and stay ahead in the rapidly evolving field of sensing technology! Visit the SPIE Defense + Commercial Sensing website for more details on registration and event programming.

See You at Booth 616!

Visit Barnett Technical Services at booth 616 to explore advanced MicroSupport micromanipulators. Our team of experts will be on hand to answer your questions and demonstrate how these powerful tools can enhance your research and industrial applications.

Learn More:

We look forward to seeing you in Orlando!

News

Micromanipulator Demo at MIT

The MicroSupport Axis Pro Micromanipulator provides capabilities for precise micro sampling. A wide range of sampling tools are available including probes, knives, scrapers, liquid manipulation systems, and glass probes for ex situ lift-out. More details may be found here.

On-Site Demo Dates: Monday, March 31 – Thursday, April 3

We are currently finalizing the arrangements of our on-site demo.  Please contact us so we may let you know the details once they are ready.


Times: Available all day (on appointment) with organized demos at these times:
Tuesday, April 1 – 10:00 AM
Wednesday, April 2 – 1:30 PM
Thursday, April 3 – 10:00 AM

Note: To schedule a demo time, please call or text our on-site representative, Steve Barnett at 916-549-4423 or email at our Contact Us page.

Any questions, contact us

Conferences

Barnett Technical Services at Pittcon25: Showcasing Advanced Raman Microscopes and Micromanipulators

Barnett Technical Services (BTS) is thrilled to announce our participation at Pittcon25, the premier global conference and exposition for laboratory science, taking place March 1-5 in Boston, MA. Join us at booth 1752 to explore our innovative solutions in advanced microscopy and micro-manipulation technologies.

Revolutionize Micro Sample Handling with MicroSupport Manipulators

Founded in 2006, MicroSupport Co., Ltd. is a renowned Japanese manufacturer specializing in micromanipulators and related accessories. MicroSupport’s cutting-edge solutions cater to industries requiring stringent quality control and advanced material research, including high molecular compounds, petrochemicals, electronics, and semiconductors.

At the heart of MicroSupport’s offerings is the Axis Pro Benchtop Micromanipulator. This revolutionary system combines:

  • A zoom microscope with motorized XYZ stage.
  • Two motorized arms controlled via an intuitive software interface and mouse.
  • A versatile range of tools, including probes, knives, scrapers, and liquid deposition/pickup accessories.
  • Compatibility with electrical probes for precise measurements.

The entire system can be integrated into a glovebox, enabling micro-sampling in an inert atmosphere, ensuring accuracy and reliability in delicate environments. These tools empower researchers and industry professionals to handle microscopic samples with unparalleled precision, from contaminant removal to intricate sample analysis.

As an authorized distributor, BTS provides access to MicroSupport’s comprehensive suite of tools, ensuring you have the capabilities to tackle even the most demanding micro-sample handling tasks.

Precision Material Characterization with SOL Instruments Confocal Raman Microscopes

At BTS, we recognize the importance of equipping researchers with the best tools for advanced material characterization. That’s why we proudly offer the Confotec® Series Raman Confocal Microscopes from SOL Instruments, a leading manufacturer with over 25 years of expertise in Raman technology.

These powerful 3D scanning laser microscopes are designed to address diverse research challenges across scientific and industrial domains. The Confotec® systems feature:

  • A modular, flexible design for tailored configurations.
  • Exceptional performance for both routine Raman microscopy and cutting-edge applications.
  • Versatility to accommodate the evolving needs of analytical chemistry and material research.

Whether you’re conducting routine analysis or exploring groundbreaking applications, the SOL Instruments Confotec® series delivers precision, reliability, and unmatched capability.

Beyond the Booth: Exploring Pittcon25

Pittcon25 is more than a conference—it’s a global hub where analytical chemists and industry professionals converge to share ideas, foster collaborations, and explore the latest innovations. The event offers:

  • Technical Sessions: Discover the latest advancements in analytical chemistry and related fields.
  • Workshops and Poster Presentations: Gain insights from thought leaders and industry experts.
  • Exhibition Hall: Explore cutting-edge instruments, technologies, and solutions tailored to laboratory needs.

Pittcon25 provides a unique opportunity to network with leading researchers, specialists, and equipment manufacturers, driving innovation and scientific discovery.

See You at Booth 1752!

Visit Barnett Technical Services at booth 1752 to learn how our advanced microscopy and micro-manipulation solutions can elevate your research and development capabilities. Our team of experts will be on hand to answer your questions, provide demonstrations, and discuss how our products can meet your specific needs.

Learn More:

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, innovate, and take your research to the next level. We look forward to seeing you in Boston!

Conferences

Barnett Technical Services at the 2026 MRS Spring Meeting: Discover Advanced Characterization Tools

Barnett Technical Services (BTS) is pleased to announce our participation in the 2026 MRS Spring Meeting & Exhibit, taking place April 26 – May 1, 2026, in Honolulu. Join us at Booth 306 to explore advanced solutions for materials characterization and micro-sample manipulation.

The MRS Spring Meeting is one of the premier global gatherings for researchers, innovators, and industry professionals in materials science. It provides an unparalleled platform to exchange insights, discover breakthroughs, and experience cutting-edge technologies shaping the future of research and industry.

Explore Our Product Lineup

We’ll be showcasing a focused selection of tools designed to advance your research capabilities:

  1. MicroSupport Manipulators
    Achieve unmatched precision in micro-sample handling with MicroSupport’s micromanipulators. These systems feature motorized XYZ stages and a wide range of customizable arms, making them ideal for micro-sampling, liquid deposition, electrical probing, and more. Applications span semiconductors, electronics, petrochemicals, and life sciences—with glovebox-compatible solutions available.
  2. SOL Raman Microscopes
    Discover the Confotec® series from SOL Instruments—state-of-the-art 3D confocal Raman microscopes designed for versatility and high performance. From routine Raman analysis to complex material studies, these systems deliver robust, reproducible results. Their modular design ensures flexibility across diverse research applications.

In addition to the featured systems above, please also come speak to us about:

  • Wooptix Wavefront Sensor for surface roughness and defects
  • Cordouan Technologies Dynamic Light Scattering and Zeta Potential nanoparticle characterization systems
  • Hot Disk thermal analyzers
  • Attolight cathodoluminescence systems

About the MRS Spring Meeting

The MRS Spring Meeting is one of the most important interdisciplinary events in materials science. Hosted in Honolulu, it brings together researchers, industry leaders, and innovators from around the world for a week of cross-disciplinary collaboration and scientific exchange.

Participants will have the opportunity to attend technical sessions, symposia, and networking events—gaining insights from world-renowned experts and exploring technologies that are shaping the future.

Visit Us at Booth 306

Don’t miss the chance to connect with the Barnett Technical Services team. Discover how BTS can support your materials research with tools that combine precision, innovation, and reliability.

Learn More:

We look forward to seeing you in Honolulu at Booth 306 during the 2026 MRS Spring Meeting & Exhibit!

Event Recap & Photos

We had an incredible experience at the 2026 MRS Spring Meeting in Honolulu! Thank you to everyone who visited Booth 306 and engaged with our team. The energy and innovation at this world-class conference reinforced why we’re passionate about supporting materials science research. We look forward to continuing these valuable collaborations with our global community of researchers and partners.

Conferences

Barnett Technical Services at AGU25: Advancing Micro-Sampling and Material Characterization with MicroSupport Manipulators and SOL Raman Microscopes

Barnett Technical Services (BTS) is pleased to announce participation in AGU25, the world’s largest gathering of Earth and space scientists, taking place December 15–19, 2025, in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Visit us at Booth 330 to explore the latest innovations from MicroSupport Manipulators and SOL Instruments Confocal Raman Microscopes – powerful tools designed to push the boundaries of micro-sample handling and advanced material analysis.

Precision Micro-Sampling with MicroSupport Manipulators

MicroSupport Co., Ltd., established in 2006, is a global leader in micromanipulation technology, providing innovative solutions for precision micro-sampling across industries such as petrochemicals, semiconductors, electronics, and advanced materials research.

The MicroSupport Collection Pro benchtop micromanipulator integrates a high-resolution zoom microscope, motorized XYZ stage, and dual motorized arms—all controlled through intuitive software for precise and repeatable operations.

Key capabilities include:

  • Accurate micro-sampling using specialized probes, knives, or scrapers.
  • Liquid deposition and extraction for analytical sample preparation.
  • Electrical probing for semiconductor and materials research.
  • Compatibility with glovebox environments for inert-atmosphere operations.

As the authorized distributor, Barnett Technical Services provides full support and expertise to help laboratories enhance their micro-sampling precision and workflow efficiency.

Advanced Material Characterization with SOL Raman Microscopes

For researchers focused on material characterization, the SOL Instruments Confotec® series of confocal Raman microscopes offers exceptional performance for 3D Raman imaging, fluorescence, and laser microscopy.

Engineered for both fundamental and applied research, these systems deliver:

  • High spatial and spectral resolution for detailed Raman spectroscopy.
  • Modular configurations tailored to your research needs.
  • Versatile operation modes for a broad range of materials—from nanomaterials and polymers to geological and environmental samples.

Whether you’re studying mineral inclusions, mapping microstructures, or analyzing compositional variations, SOL Raman Microscopes provide the data accuracy and reliability required for today’s most demanding research.

About AGU25: “For the Benefit of Humanity”

The American Geophysical Union (AGU) Annual Meeting brings together over 25,000 scientists, educators, and industry leaders from more than 100 countries to share discoveries and ideas that advance Earth and space sciences.

AGU25 will focus on how interdisciplinary collaboration, open science, and technological innovation can help solve pressing global challenges – making it the ideal venue to explore the tools driving modern research.

Visit Barnett Technical Services at Booth 330

Join us at Booth 330 to:

  • See live demonstrationsof theMicroSupport Collection Pro micromanipulator.
  • Explore the capabilities of SOL Confotec® Raman Microscopes.
  • Connect with our experts to discuss how these tools can enhance your analytical and micro-sampling applications.

We look forward to meeting you in New Orleans and discussing how Barnett Technical Services can support your research goals with advanced instrumentation.

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Technical

Advanced Techniques for Evaluating Strain in Low Phase Difference Samples

Residual stress is a part of the total stress when an external load is applied to an object. This stress remains inside even after the load is removed. Measuring the residual stress in glasses and plastics is necessary to understand the structural properties . they may offer to a product if they are deformed due to heat, strain or likely to break, and how evenly stress is distributed throughout the sample. An accurate strain analysis of various glass and plastic types is useful in many applications ranging from semiconductor chips to glassware, especially in selecting the right materials. It is challenging to detect any deformities due to strain without using credible and advanced techniques, which show you minute details of where possible strain could be in a glass or plastic piece. Advanced spectroscopic instruments such as polariscope strain viewers play an important role in this regard. This post discusses the importance of polariscopes as an advanced evaluation technique in measuring strain in low-phase difference samples.

Understanding Low Phase Difference of Light

Key points to understand phase differences, and their significance, examples, and applications:

  • Phase differences in linear polarization refers to the distance between the crests and troughs of a light wave as it propagates its way.
  • This phase difference will be zero degrees if the crests and troughs of two light ways align, which means the waves are in phase. If this difference is 180 degrees, the two waves are said to be out of phase, which means when one wave goes through the crest the other has a trough. Understanding this phase difference is crucial in many optical applications, such as wave plates and retarders.
  • When light passes through an object or a sample, its speed changes based on the material’s refractive index, resulting in a phase shift between the waves.
  • Low phase difference refers to the minimal phase shift as the light wave passes through an object. It means there is minimal or no alteration in the light properties after the light wave exits the object. Such low phase difference is helpful in many applications such as polarized sunglasses and cameras, LCD screens, optical lenses, and so on.
  • Low phase difference helps reduce glare and enhances clarity and visibility. Typically, materials with low birefringence, such as glass, help achieve a low phase difference. Some common examples of low phase difference include semiconductor wafers and colored glass.
  • Semiconductors, especially the ones used in optical devices, optoelectronics, and photonics, are carefully manufactured to ensure minimal surface roughness, interference stability, uniform thickness, and more to achieve low phase difference.
  • Colored glass also may have certain impurities, and hence needs to be engineered to achieve low phase difference, especially in applications such as stained glass, lenses, optical filters, and more.

Challenges in Strain Detection

Some challenges in strain detection by methods other than polariscopes, include:

  • Detecting exact strain in low phase difference samples can be challenging because the crests and troughs of the light wave passing through show minimal variation.
  • Most other methods may not yield the level of precision and accuracy required, especially for glass or semiconductor applications.
  • Some strain portions may be missed out, which may directly impact the product quality. For instance, if even a slightly deformed glass is used in sunglasses, it will lead to poor or hazy visibility, may affect the users’ eyes, and lead to product recalls.
  • There is a growing importance for precise and sensitive measurement techniques across applications, and using a polariscope strain viewer can overcome these challenges.

Advanced Evaluation Techniques with Polariscope Strain Viewers

Polariscope strain viewers aide in the precise and accurate measurement of samples.

  • The polariscope strain viewer facilitates a non-destructive and highly accurate method to measure strain and structural defects in detail in various transparent materials such as glass and plastic. It accurately reports the direction of stress in addition to the degree of stress as reflected by the optical retardation.
  • A polariscope consists of two crucial components – a light source that emits polarized light and polarizing filters that control the orientation of the light. When the polarized light interacts with a material, it changes intensity and color, thus showing in detail the internal stresses within the material, which otherwise may have gone unnoticed. This detailing allows analysts to map and measure the strain distribution across the material precisely.
  • These polariscopes are supported by a robust data analysis software that provides images of the magnitude and direction of the optical retardation induced by strain.
  • Polariscopes have various modes to detect scratches, dents, foreign objects, and more on the sample.
  • Polariscopes measure birefringence and retardation values in a transparent sample. The retardation values can be used to determine the strain in the sample using the rotating analyzer method. Polarized light passes through the sample and then through another polarizer at a series of angles. The light passing through both polarizers falls on a CCD to provide XY data on the sample. By combining the data from all the angles of the second polarizer, the retardation may be calculated.

Benefits for Researchers and Manufacturers

Polariscope strain viewers offer tremendous benefits in terms of accuracy and precision for both research and manufacturing. Here are some pointers.

  • Polariscopes offer precision, sensitivity, and accuracy when detecting minute strains in low-phase difference samples, which holds importance for high-precision applications.
  • They are easy to use with a user-friendly interface and facilitate automated data collection and analysis because of the inbuilt software. You can connect it to your computer to check the graphical and other data for further analysis.
  • These versatile instruments are portable and designed to use across environments from research labs to production floors to measure varied sample sizes and materials

Applications in Research and Manufacturing

Here are some application areas of polarizing strain viewers, especially in research and manufacturing segments.

  • Semiconductors
  • Quality control and assurance
  • Detection of defects and inconsistencies in glass, plastics, and more
  • Colored glass manufacturing
  • Ensuring structural integrity and performance of samples
  • Identifying stress points and potential failure areas
  • Scientific Research
  • Materials science research
  • Detailed strain mapping for new material development

If you have any questions about using polariscope strain viewers in your semiconductor or glass application or need to know about custom options or anything else, you can consult the team at Barnett Technical Services. The company is an authorized distributor for various models of spectroscopy equipment, such as polariscopes made by Luceo.

Related Products:

LSM-9002LE: Strain measurement in the visible across a 175×175 mm area

LSM-9002S: Strain measurement in the visible with a variable field of view for 10-10 to 60×60 mm

LSM-9001NIR: Near-IR system to measure strain in semiconductors

LSM-9100WNIR: Near-IR system to measure strain in resins and other plastics

Conferences

Barnett Technical Services at ISTFA 2024: Experience Electrical Testing with MicroSupport Probe Stations

Barnett Technical Services (BTS) is excited to announce our participation in ISTFA 2024, the premier global event for the microelectronics failure analysis community. The symposium will take place from October 28th to November 1st at the San Diego Convention Center in San Diego, California. Visit us at Booth 206 to explore the latest micromanipulation technologies and precision material handling tools, including electrical testing capabilities.

Electrical Testing with MicroSupport Probe Stations

BTS is proud to showcase our electrical testing solutions powered by MicroSupport’s cutting-edge probe stations. These versatile platforms are designed to precisely position micromanipulator probes for accurate electronic device testing. With their high-precision electrical probing capabilities, MicroSupport probe stations are ideal for semiconductor and microelectronics applications.

AxisPro: Unmatched Precision for Electrical Probing

The AxisPro electrical probe station delivers unparalleled precision with a remarkable 1µm probe-positioning accuracy. Its standard configuration features two arms, but can be easily customized with three or more arms to meet your specific testing needs. This adaptability ensures accurate and efficient electrical testing across a wide range of applications.

QuickPro: A Compact Solution for Electrical Testing

Designed for standalone high-precision electrical probing, the QuickPro electrical probe station offers exceptional flexibility. Configure it with up to four probes, each capable of being positioned with 1µm accuracy. When paired with a white light microscope, QuickPro provides precise and adaptable probing, making it an ideal choice for failure analysis and semiconductor testing.

D-MARK: Sample Marking For Failure Analysis Applications

The D-MARK systems is a simple tool that permits defects and failures to be marked for transfer to failure analysis groups.  This system facilitates defect localization and speeds up the failure analysis process.

Probe Micromanipulators
MicroSupport Four-Probe Station

About ISTFA 2024

The International Symposium for Testing and Failure Analysis (ISTFA) is the premier annual gathering for professionals dedicated to semiconductor failure analysis. Celebrating its 50th edition in 2024, ISTFA continues to be the cornerstone event for sharing knowledge and advancing techniques in the field. Organized by ASM International, the symposium provides:

  • In-depth technical programs on the latest advancements
  • Networking opportunities with global experts
  • Exhibitions featuring cutting-edge technologies for microelectronics testing and failure analysis

For more details, visit the official ISTFA 2024 website

Visit Us at Booth 206!

Join Barnett Technical Services at Booth 206 to explore our advanced micromanipulation probe statiations with electrical testing capabilities. Our experts will demonstrate these technologies and discuss how they can enhance your failure analysis and material handling workflows.

Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your expertise and discover tools that can make a significant impact in your work.

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Conferences

Barnett Technical Services at SciX25: Showcasing SOL Raman Microscopes, MicroSupport Micromanipulators, ABB Gas Analyzers and Cordouan Particle Size Analyzers

Barnett Technical Services (BTS) is excited to be exhibiting at SciX25, the premier international conference for analytical chemistry and allied sciences, taking place October 5th-10th in Covington, Kentucky. Visit us at booth 413 to explore our cutting-edge solutions for advanced microscopy, micro manipulation, gas analysis and particle analyzers.

Revolutionize Micro Sample Handling with MicroSupport Micromanipulators

MicroSupport’s revolutionary micromanipulators are transforming micro sample handling in R&D and industry with unmatched motion control for precise manipulation of delicate microscopic objects. Founded in 2006, MicroSupport Co., Ltd. is a leading Japanese manufacturer providing micro-sampling solutions for industries requiring stringent quality control in high molecular compounds, petrochemicals, electronics, and semiconductors.

The Micro Support Axis Pro benchtop micromanipulator features a zoom microscope with motorized XYZ stage and two motorized arms, controlled through intuitive software interface. This technology excels in applications from removing foreign contaminants in electronics and pharmaceuticals to analyzing microscopic crystals, accommodating various tools including probes, knives, scrapers, and liquid deposition accessories. Barnett Technical Services, an authorized distributor, provides access to this comprehensive micromanipulation suite for even the most demanding micro object tasks.

Advanced Raman Microscopy with SOL Instruments

SOL Instruments Ltd. specializes in advanced instruments for light measurement, elemental analysis, and nano-scale microscopy. With over twenty years of experience, they focus on innovation in spectroscopy, microscopy, lasers, and reliable tools for scientific and industrial applications.

We are proud to be an authorized distributor of SOL Instruments’ Confocal Raman microscopes, enabling us to provide cutting-edge technology-based instruments to our clients across various industries. Their product range includes sophisticated Raman Microscopes and Elemental Analysis products that deliver exceptional performance for research and quality control applications.

SOL’s Confocal Raman microscopes offer superior spatial resolution and chemical identification capabilities, making them ideal for materials characterization, pharmaceutical analysis, and advanced research applications where precise molecular identification is critical.

Precision Gas Analysis with ABB/LGR Analyzers

Now part of the ABB Group, Los Gatos Research (LGR) is a leading developer and manufacturer of laser-based instruments for measuring trace gases, isotopes, pollutants, and fluxes. LGR-ICOS analyzers utilize Off-Axis Integrated Cavity Output Spectroscopy (OA-ICOS), a unique laser absorption technology patented by LGR.

This innovative technology provides exceptional sensitivity and selectivity for gas analysis applications, delivering accurate measurements even at trace concentration levels. The analyzers are designed for reliability and ease of use, making them suitable for both laboratory and field applications.

Barnett Technical Services proudly serves as an authorized distributor of ABB-LGR’s comprehensive product line, offering a range of cutting-edge instruments including Greenhouse gas analyzers, Liquid Water Isotope Analyzers (LWIA), and N2O Analyzers. These instruments are essential for environmental monitoring, atmospheric research, and industrial process control applications.

Advance Nanoparticle Characterization with Cordouan Particle Size Analyzers

Cordouan pioneers nanoparticle measurement with advanced light scattering instruments for research and industry. Focused on precision and innovation, Cordouan delivers reliable Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and related techniques to analyze particle size, stability, and aggregation.

Their high-sensitivity DLS systems provide real-time data, supporting applications from pharmaceuticals and nanomaterials to emulsions and advanced chemistry. Available in compact benchtop models or customized platforms, these tools meet diverse research needs.

As an authorized distributor, Barnett Technical Services provides access to Cordouan’s full suite of nanoparticle characterization solutions. Backed by expert guidance, these instruments deliver accurate, repeatable results, enabling deeper insights into nanoscale materials.

Beyond the Booth: Exploring SciX25

SciX25 promises to be an unforgettable event for anyone involved in analytical sciences. Organized by the Federation of Analytical Chemistry and Spectroscopy Societies (FACSS), the conference offers a unique opportunity to:

  • Learn about the latest advancements in analytical chemistry through an unparalleled technical program
  • Network with leading researchers and industry professionals from around the world
  • Explore a world-class exhibition showcasing the latest technologies and instrumentation
  • Discover innovative solutions for complex analytical challenges

The SciX conference continues to grow because it is highly valued by attendees for its technical program, world-class exhibits, and many career-building networking opportunities. Since 2011, this conference has been known as “The Great Scientific Exchange,” reflecting its role as the premier forum for sharing knowledge and advancing analytical sciences.

Don’t miss out on this chance to connect, learn, and grow your expertise! Visit the SciX25 website for more information and registration details.

See You at Booth 413!

Visit Barnett Technical Services at booth 413 to explore our advanced microscopy, micro manipulation, and gas analysis solutions. Our team of experts will be happy to answer your questions and demonstrate how these powerful tools can elevate your research and analytical capabilities.

Whether you’re working with microscopic samples that require precise manipulation, need advanced Raman spectroscopy capabilities, or require accurate gas analysis for your applications, we have the solutions to meet your needs.

Learn More:

We look forward to connecting with you in Covington, KY, October 5th-10th.

Technical

Strain Analysis in Molded Plastics Using Polariscope Strain Viewers

Stress and strain analysis hold a huge importance in quality control processes in the mold plastics and resins industries. The strain on such plastics could happen due to injection molding where the molten polymers are poured into the mold, allowed to cool, and reform. Detecting such stains is crucial to avoid deformities, product recalls, and other damages. Polariscope strain viewers are used to identify and analyze strains in mold plastics across industries ranging from consumer electronics to automotive. This post offers information on the use and benefits of using polariscope strain viewers for strain analysis in mold plastics.

Overcoming the Challenge of Detecting Strain in Molded Plastics

Accurately identifying internal strains visually, especially in complex shapes or opaque materials, is next to impossible. With a polariscope, identifying stress patterns at a micro level is manageable. A polariscope also known as a strain viewer or stress viewer, works on the principle of optical birefringence, wherein polarized light is passed through stressed plastic to determine the magnitude and direction of residual stresses in a plastic piece. This is also called photoelastic effect and is a very effective and accurate way to measure stress patterns in translucent or transparent materials. Also, this process is fast, non-destructive, and does not require a highly trained operator.

How Polariscope Strain Viewers Enhance the Accuracy of Strain Analysis

Polariscopes are used as strain viewers for analyzing stress patterns in molded plastics and identify warping, cracking, and other deformities. Here are some pointers regarding the accuracy these instruments offer, and help enhance the strength and integrity of the plastic product.

  • Polariscope strain viewers offer non-destructive testing (NDT), which means there is no physical contact and hence the integrity of the molded plastic is maintained.
  • They help assess the internal stresses within plastic components in detail, ensuring quality control in manufacturing processes and enhancing the reliability of plastic products.
  • Polariscopes evaluate 2D distribution map of colored resin products up to 175 mm. Most of these instruments are partially or fully automatic, and hence reduce measurement errors. They can measure colored resin products, residual stress, and cracks that are impossible to measure with conventional instruments.
  • It enables quantitative stress measurement by analyzing the number and orientation of fringes as well as calculating the magnitude and direction of internal stresses.
  • Polariscopes offer a clear and direct view of the internal stresses, which helps reduce errors.
  • It is effective for various types of plastics, regardless of color or state, such as opacity, translucency, or transparency.
  • It reveals hidden stress patterns, allowing for corrective actions before production issues arise.
  • It promotes consistent product quality and reduces the risk of failures and product recalls.

Importance of Quality in Molded Plastics

Any amount of strain in molded plastics leads to warping, cracking, and reduced strength. This may happen due any of the to the forming process steps such as uneven cooling, injection pressure variations, mold design, and more. Plastics with such stress patterns cannot be taken as is in making any parts or components. They are used across industries such as automotive, electronics, consumer goods, and so on in making significant parts. Hence, a thorough inspection of molded plastics is crucial to ensure quality. These plastics are used in making various parts across industries such as dashboards in cars, enclosures or covering parts in electronics, and more. Hence, they must have a high impact resistance and no deformities. Molded plastics must maintain both structural integrity and aesthetics, which reflects the features and functionality of the final product.

Understanding Mold Stress and Molded-In Stress

Mold stress, also called molded-in stress, occurs when uneven cooling rates or injection pressure cause internal tension to become locked into a plastic part during the molding process. Left undetected, molded-in stress can cause parts to crack, warp, or fail under load even if they look fine on the outside. Polariscope strain viewers, used as strain testers on the production line, catch this before parts ship.

How Types of Plastics and Their Opacity Influence the Functioning of Polariscopes?

Material properties including the level of opacity, translucency, and transparency are reflected in the polarized light transmitted through a sample. In addition, materials such as acrylic and polycarbonate are prone to stress marking and exhibit a high coefficient of thermal expansion. Polycarbonate stress birefringence is best detected using a polarized light inspection source, since it reveals fine fringe patterns that are otherwise invisible to the naked eye. This leads to internal stresses that build up during cooling and impacts the level of opacity. To view opaque plastics, the source light needs to be beyond the visible spectrum (>700nm). This near-IR light penetrates visibly opaque materials, which allows a near-IR polariscope to identify internal stresses. Combining these three aspects enables a polariscope strain viewer to identify stress patterns in a wide range of opaque plastics.

Applications of Polariscope Strain Viewers in the Plastics Industry

Molded plastics are used in many important industries such as automotive, electronics, and so on. Hence, polariscopes find use in all these industries to study the strain applied on plastics. Here are some application areas of polariscopes in the plastics industry.

  • Polariscopes are primarily used in quality control inspections of molded parts for internal stress patterns.
  • They identify stress caused by specific mold features or processing parameters.
  • They help optimize mold design and injection molding processes to minimize strain.
  • Using a polariscope ensures structural integrity for applications requiring high strength and reliable performance.

If you have any questions about using polariscope strain viewers in the molded plastics segment or need to discuss your requirements or custom options, feel free to contact the team at Barnett Technical Services. The company is an authorized distributor for various brands of spectroscopy instruments such as polariscope strain viewers and more.

Related Products:

LSM-9002LE: Strain measurement in the visible across a 175×175 mm area

LSM-9002S: Strain measurement in the visible with a variable field of view for 10-10 to 60×60 mm

LSM-9001NIR: Near-IR system to measure strain in semiconductors

LSM-9100WNIR: Near-IR system to measure strain in resins and other plastics