The list of potential applications electron imaging and x-ray microanalysis is long and interdisciplinary. Together, the electron microprobe and micro-XRF may be applied to both basic and applied research in many areas. For example:
Archaeology, Art history, Museum curation
Paints and pigments, archaeological glasses, metals and alloys, gemstones, authenticity
Biology, Medicine, and Health
Pharmaceuticals, medical technology and implants, nodule formation in plants, shells, bones and teeth
Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Construction
Concrete, brick, failure analysis, engine wear debris, ceramics and composites, turbines, aerospace
Energy – coal, oil, gas, and more
Analysis of drill cuttings and cores; analysis of trace minerals in coal and coal combustion products; fuel cells; batteries; catalysts
Environment
Environmental testing, characterizing and sourcing contaminants, airborne particles, soils
Forensics and Law enforcement
Characterization and detection of evidence: metals/alloys, glasses, paints, soils, fine particles, gun shot residue
Manufacturing and Metallurgy
Product testing, contaminant identification, quality control, R&D, alloys, welding and metal bonding development, corrosion
Mining and Geology
Mineral exploration & development, ore characterization, and mineral processing optimization; gemstones; igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic petrology; faults and fractures; porosity; volcanic ash correlation & dating; meteorites
Semiconductors and Electronics
Solar cells, circuit boards, solder/bonding, defect analysis, compliance testing, thin films and surface coatings, optical fibers