SEM/EDS and XRD data interpretation
SEM/EDS and XRD analysis reveal what a material is made of and how it is structured: SEM shows the microstructure, EDS measures local chemistry, and XRD identifies crystalline phases. Abdul Rahman interprets SEM images, EDS spectra and XRD patterns for companies and research teams, drawing on characterization work across more than 50 industrial and academic projects.
What's included
- Interpretation of SEM micrographs: microstructure, porosity, cracks, inclusions and coatings
- EDS spectrum and map review, including peak overlaps and quantification limits
- XRD phase identification against reference databases
- Rietveld refinement for phase fractions and lattice parameters
- XRF results cross-checked against EDS and XRD
Who it's for
- Labs with data but no specialist to interpret it
- Contaminant, deposit and corrosion-product identification
- Coating, ceramic and powder characterization
- Second opinions on existing lab reports
How it works
- Discovery call: A free 30-minute video call to understand the part, the material and what you need to decide.
- Proposal: A short written scope with the analyses, the data or samples needed, the timeline and the price.
- Analysis: Data and images are shared securely online; physical testing is arranged with a lab near you when needed.
- Report and debrief: A written report with findings and recommendations, followed by a call to walk your team through it.
Questions about sem/eds & xrd
What is the difference between SEM, EDS and XRD?
SEM (scanning electron microscopy) images a surface at high magnification. EDS (energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy), usually attached to the SEM, measures which elements are present in a small area. XRD (X-ray diffraction) identifies crystalline phases and compounds in a bulk sample. Together they show structure, chemistry and phase.
What files should I send?
Original image files with their scale bars and instrument settings, EDS spectra or maps in the instrument's export format, and XRD raw data (for example .xy, .raw or .brml) with the instrument geometry and radiation used.
What is Rietveld refinement used for?
Rietveld refinement fits a calculated diffraction pattern to the measured XRD pattern. It gives quantitative phase fractions, lattice parameters and crystallite size, which simple peak matching cannot provide.