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October 8, 2026
ESG—Environmental, Social, and Governance—is a framework for assessing an organisation’s sustainability performance, with increasing emphasis on environmental, social, and governance data. Many industrial organisations are therefore required to prepare reports and disclose information that can be independently verified.
One important environmental indicator is volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are directly associated with air quality, worker health, and emissions control.
The Role of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in the ESG Context
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a group of chemicals that evaporate readily at room temperature. They can be found in manufacturing processes, fuel combustion, and a wide range of industrial activities.
VOC emissions may affect both air quality and workers’ health. In the context of ESG, VOCs are relevant to all three dimensions:
Environmental: Monitoring VOC levels reflects the effectiveness of an organisation’s emissions-control measures.
Social: VOC management is associated with occupational health and worker safety.
Governance: Accurate and verifiable VOC reporting demonstrates organisational transparency.
VOC data therefore represents more than technical concentration measurements. It forms part of the overall assessment of an organisation’s sustainability and corporate responsibility.
The Importance of Accuracy in VOC Analysis
Assessing VOC levels requires both appropriate sampling and accurate analysis. Portable instruments such as photoionisation detectors (PIDs) can rapidly screen overall VOC levels. However, identifying specific compounds and producing formal analytical reports requires laboratory analysis.
Technologies commonly used for VOC analysis include:
GC-MS (Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry): Used to separate and accurately identify individual compounds.
HSGC (Headspace Gas Chromatography): Used to analyse VOCs in water.
SPE (Solid-Phase Extraction): Used to prepare soil and water samples before analysis.
The accuracy of analytical results does not depend solely on the instruments used. It also depends on sampling and sample-preservation procedures, as well as the laboratory’s quality-control system. If these processes are inappropriate, the results may be inaccurate and could affect risk assessments.
In the ESG context, data used in reporting should be traceable and sufficiently reliable to be accepted both domestically and internationally.
VOC Analysis in Air, Water, and Soil
VOCs can be present in various environmental media. The analytical approach must therefore be selected according to the characteristics of each sample type.
VOC Analysis in Air
Air samples may be collected using sorbent-based methods or continuous sampling techniques. The samples are subsequently analysed using GC-MS to identify and quantify the compounds present.
Assessing VOC levels in air is important for controlling air quality in workplaces and industrial areas.
VOC Analysis in Water
Because VOCs evaporate easily, water samples must be collected in tightly sealed containers, with precautions taken to minimise losses during transportation.
HSGC may be used in combination with GC-MS to obtain accurate results. The data is important for assessing water quality and determining whether water is safe for consumption or other intended uses.
VOC Analysis in Soil
At sites with a history of contamination from industrial activities, collecting soil samples from multiple locations helps provide comprehensive information.
Soil samples are commonly prepared using SPE before being analysed by GC-MS. The analytical results can be used to assess long-term environmental and health risks.
Verifiable Data and the Laboratory’s Role in the ESG Context
Under the ESG framework—particularly the Environmental and Governance dimensions—environmental data must be accurate and traceable. Laboratories therefore play an important role in ensuring that VOC analysis results are reliable.
Quality control, instrument calibration, and systematic documentation help ensure that analytical results can be used transparently for:
ESG and sustainability reporting
Submissions to regulatory authorities
Communication with stakeholders
In the ESG context, analytical figures are therefore more than concentration values. They are evidence of an organisation’s responsibility, transparency, and commitment to sustainability.
For more information: https://www.alstesting.co.th/volatile-organic-compounds-vocs/
Read moreOctober 8, 2026
Ensuring Product Quality and Safety Through GC-MS Analysis
In an era when quality control and product safety are essential for every business, accurate and comprehensive chemical analysis techniques such as GC-MS (Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry) have become important tools that help businesses ensure the quality and safety of their products.
In this article, we introduce GC-MS and explain why businesses across various industries—particularly the food industry—should place importance on this type of testing. We also introduce GC-MS testing services from ALS Testing Services (Thailand), which supports businesses with advanced technology and internationally recognised expertise.
The Four-Step GC-MS Testing Process for Product Quality and Safety
GC-MS is a chemical analysis technique that combines two analytical instruments:
GC (Gas Chromatography): Separates the different compounds in a sample into individual components
MS (Mass Spectrometry): Analyses and identifies each compound by measuring its mass and chemical structure
This technique enables compounds in a sample to be identified and quantified in a detailed, accurate, and rapid manner.
1. Sample Injection
The first step is to prepare and inject the sample into the GC instrument. In general, the sample is prepared in liquid or gaseous form and then injected into the system using an automated injector that precisely controls the sample volume.
The carrier gas transports the sample into the separation column. Temperature and pressure are carefully controlled during this stage to preserve the integrity of the sample and ensure accurate analytical results.
2. Separation of Compounds
Once the sample enters the separation column, it passes through a specialised coating inside a very long and narrow tube. A carrier gas helps move the compounds through the column.
Because different compounds interact differently with the column surface and have different boiling points, they travel through the column at different rates and are separated from one another.
This process is similar to filtering a mixture into its individual components, allowing each substance to be accurately analysed in the next stage.
3. Detection of Compounds
After the compounds have been separated in the GC column, they are transferred to the MS instrument. The MS converts the molecules into ions through an ionisation process using electrical energy or light.
The instrument then measures the mass of each ion by separating them according to their mass-to-charge ratio.
4. Data Analysis and Compound Identification
The results from the MS instrument are converted into a mass spectrum, which shows the distribution of ions according to their mass and signal intensity.
Data-analysis software compares this spectrum with standard databases containing the mass signatures of numerous chemical substances. This enables the compounds present in the sample to be identified.
The concentration of each compound can also be accurately calculated based on the intensity of the detected signal. This information is essential for evaluating product quality and safety.
The Importance of GC-MS Analysis
GC-MS plays an important role in many industries, including food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, environmental testing, and chemical manufacturing.
It enables businesses to effectively monitor and control product quality, prevent risks associated with residues or hazardous substances, and comply with stringent legal requirements and international standards.
Detailed Analysis of Chemicals and Contaminants
GC-MS can detect a wide range of complex organic compounds at very low concentrations, including:
Chemical residues in food
Environmental toxins
Contaminants in medical products
Residual solvents and other unwanted substances
Supporting Product Quality and Safety
Businesses that manufacture products requiring high safety standards—such as food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices—must ensure that their products are free from hazardous substances and contamination.
Accurate GC-MS testing provides confidence that products meet the required standards and are safe for consumers.
Supporting Compliance with Legal and International Standards
Many countries and industries require testing for chemical residues and contaminants in accordance with strict standards.
GC-MS is a key analytical tool that helps businesses meet these requirements, reducing the risk of regulatory penalties, product rejection, or product recalls.
Strengthening Competitive Advantage
Accurate and clear analytical data enables businesses to communicate the safety and quality of their products to customers and business partners with confidence.
This helps build trust, strengthen business relationships, and support sustainable market expansion.
Key Features of ALS Testing’s GC-MS Services
High Accuracy Through Advanced Equipment and International Standards
ALS Testing uses advanced and high-performance GC-MS technology, together with strict quality-control systems that comply with ISO/IEC 17025, the international standard for testing and calibration laboratories.
This ensures that test results are accurate, reliable, traceable, and internationally recognised.
Comprehensive Services from Sample Receipt to Final Report
We provide an end-to-end service covering every stage of the testing process, including:
Professional sample receipt and preparation
Analysis using advanced instrumentation
Preparation of detailed, clear, and easy-to-understand reports
This enables customers to apply the results immediately to their quality-control and production-improvement processes.
Supports a Wide Range of Sample Types
Our GC-MS services support the analysis of a wide variety of samples, including:
Food
Water
Soil
Air
Cosmetics
Industrial products
Other materials from a wide range of business sectors
This allows us to meet the testing requirements of customers across diverse industries.
In-Depth Technical Consultation
The ALS Testing expert team provides consultation and detailed explanations of analytical results. This helps customers understand the data and apply the findings to improve manufacturing processes and quality-control systems.
As a result, businesses can raise product standards and strengthen their competitiveness in the market.
Test Your Products with Internationally Standardised GC-MS Services from ALS Testing
GC-MS is an important and highly accurate chemical analysis technique that enables businesses to effectively verify product quality and safety.
Prioritising this type of testing helps reduce production risks and increase confidence in the marketplace.
With extensive experience and advanced technology, ALS Testing Services (Thailand) is a trusted partner for comprehensive GC-MS testing services that comply with international standards.
Work with ALS Testing to advance your business towards excellence in product quality and safety—and establish a new standard of confidence for your organisation.
Read moreOctober 8, 2026
Salt Spray Testing, also known as Salt Fog Testing, is one of the most widely used methods for evaluating the surface quality and corrosion resistance of products in the manufacturing industry. It is particularly suitable for metals, steel products, automotive components, electronic equipment, and medical devices. The test helps determine whether these products meet the required quality standards.
Salt Spray Testing is designed to simulate a harsh, corrosive environment inside a controlled test chamber. During the test, a sodium chloride (NaCl) solution is continuously sprayed onto test specimens as a fine mist.
Which Industries Is Salt Spray Testing Suitable For?
Most industrial manufacturers produce products for specific applications. Maintaining production standards and consistent product quality requires careful control of materials and manufacturing processes. As a comprehensive corrosion-testing method, Salt Spray Testing is suitable for the following industries:
1. Automotive Industry
Vehicle frames, bumpers, nuts, screws, and other automotive components should undergo testing to evaluate their expected service life in highly polluted or corrosive environments, such as areas where the atmosphere contains high concentrations of salt.
2. Construction Industry
Salt Spray Testing is also suitable for evaluating metal materials and components used in buildings, bridges, and other structures. It supports effective construction and helps ensure the safety, strength, and durability of materials used in the industry.
3. Electrical and Electronics Industry
Electrical and electronic components installed outdoors or in locations exposed to changing weather conditions may face an increased risk of corrosion. Salt Spray Testing can help assess whether these components offer adequate corrosion resistance.
4. Marine Industry
Components and engines used in shipbuilding and marine operations are well suited to Salt Spray Testing. The test can simulate conditions similar to actual marine environments, helping manufacturers evaluate the quality and suitability of selected materials.
5. Metal Finishing and Coating Industry
Salt Spray Testing can be used to evaluate the quality of protective coatings, including zinc plating, chrome plating, paint coatings, and other surface treatments, and determine how effectively they protect the underlying material against corrosion.
6. Furniture and Outdoor Equipment Industry
Products in this category are commonly installed or used outdoors, where they are exposed to factors that accelerate corrosion. Examples include metal fences, security grilles, front gates, outdoor tables, and outdoor chairs.
Testing helps prevent products from rusting prematurely or experiencing early structural failure caused by corrosion. Such problems may adversely affect product performance and the manufacturer’s brand image.
Benefits of Salt Spray Testing for Product Quality
1. Detect Problems Before Delivery
Salt Spray Testing serves as a final quality-control checkpoint, helping manufacturers identify product defects or weaknesses before delivery.
If the test shows that a product corrodes faster than expected, the engineering team can use the results to improve processes such as surface treatment, material selection, or packaging. This helps prevent products from becoming damaged before reaching customers or developing rust shortly after entering service.
This is particularly important for automotive components, electrical equipment, and industrial products.
2. Improve Product Quality
Salt Spray Testing is an important tool that provides valuable insights for continuous product development. Manufacturers can use the results to modify coating formulations, select more durable materials, or improve manufacturing processes.
These improvements can extend product service life and enhance its resistance to actual operating conditions in the customer’s environment, ensuring that the materials used are more suitable for their intended applications.
3. Strengthen Confidence in the Brand
Conducting Salt Spray Testing through a laboratory accredited to an internationally recognised standard such as ISO/IEC 17025 demonstrates attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality products.
In an era when quality and reliability play an increasingly important role in customers’ purchasing decisions, testing by an internationally accredited laboratory can strengthen confidence in the brand among customers and business partners.
Salt Spray Testing Services from ALS Testing
Although some factories may already have basic Salt Spray Testing equipment, businesses requiring reliable results supported by international standards—and results that can be presented to trading partners or used for export purposes—should consider using a professional laboratory such as ALS.
ALS Testing provides the following services and capabilities:
Testing in an ISO/IEC 17025-Accredited Laboratory
Testing conducted in an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory helps ensure that the laboratory’s activities comply with internationally recognised requirements and that the results are reliable and technically valid.
ISO/IEC 17025 covers two main areas:
1. Technical Competence
Technical competence refers to a laboratory’s ability to conduct testing correctly and reliably. This includes using calibrated equipment, employing knowledgeable and experienced personnel, and following standardised procedures.
These requirements help ensure that every test result is accurate, consistent, traceable, and verifiable.
2. Quality Management System
A quality management system in an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory establishes the internal structure and procedures required to ensure that every stage of work is systematic, transparent, traceable, and subject to continuous quality control.
ISO/IEC 17025 focuses specifically on testing and calibration activities, unlike ISO 9001, which applies to general quality management systems across a broader range of organisations.
Control of All Parameters Using Calibrated Equipment and an Experienced Team
Every stage of the Salt Spray Testing process is strictly controlled. The laboratory uses calibrated equipment, while testing is performed by knowledgeable and experienced personnel.
This ensures that the results are accurate, reliable, and scientifically explainable.
Clear Reports with Interpretation by Technical Experts
Test reports contain detailed records of the testing process, including data, photographs, and environmental conditions at different stages of the test.
The results are analysed and interpreted by qualified technical experts, enabling customers to compare the findings directly with industry standards or specific customer requirements. This helps determine whether the product passes or fails the specified quality criteria.
Technical Consultation and Corrective Recommendations
If a tested product fails to meet the required standard, our technical experts can conduct a detailed root-cause analysis to identify the actual source of the problem.
Potential causes may include improper surface preparation, inconsistent coating application, or material-related factors affecting corrosion resistance. The findings can then be used to develop appropriate corrective actions and product improvements.
Raise Product Standards with Salt Spray Testing from ALS
In an era of intense competition in industrial product quality, reliable test results supported by internationally recognised standards are essential. They help ensure that your products can fully meet market requirements and customer expectations.
ALS Testing provides comprehensive and highly accurate Salt Spray Testing services to help you identify problems before product delivery and reduce the risk of product failure after entering the market. Test results can also support product development, improve overall quality, and strengthen confidence among customers and business partners.
Choose Salt Spray Testing from ALS’s professional laboratory today to enhance your product quality and standards.
Read moreOctober 6, 2026
Free Webinar 📣📣📣
ALS invites you to join our free online seminar :
“Cleanliness of Components and Systems for Road Vehicles — VDA 19.1”
📅 Friday, 16 October 2026
⏰ Time: 8:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. 👩⚖️ Speaker Ms. Warunee Pusatjapong, Business Manager
Business Unit Manager and Laboratory Testing Expert Webinar Objectives This webinar will provide participants with a fundamental understanding of “Cleanliness of Components and Systems for Road Vehicles — VDA 19.1,” including testing methods and the application of test results in the automotive industry. (The webinar will be conducted in Thai language) Webinar Content : 1. Introduction and selection 2. Extraction methods
2.1) Liquid extraction: Pressure rinsing, agitation, ultrasonic extraction, and internal rinsing
2.2) Air extraction: Air-jet extraction and air-throughflow extraction 3. Filtration and analysis 4. Declining curve 5. Routine inspection 6. Evaluation of results ✅✅How to Receive the Webinar Link and Certificate ✅✅ Simply complete these 3️⃣ easy steps:⬇️ 1️⃣ Follow the ALS Facebook page by scanning the QR code below. 2️⃣ Share the VDA 19 online seminar post. 3️⃣ Comment “Interested/สนใจ” under the VDA 19 online seminar post and wait to receive the webinar link via Messenger. https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19bEVMuQkP/?mibextid=wwXIfr For More Information Marketing Department : 1.Kamonworanee Theptaranonth (Jib) Tel.: +66 94 480 4705
Email: K.Theptaranonth@ALSGlobal.com 2.Hathaikan Israngkur (A) Tel.: +66 94 480 4706
Email: hathaikan.israngkur@alsglobal.com 3.Rata Nora-anankul (Jin) Tel.: +66 83 858 1323
Email: rata.noraanankul@alsglobal.com ALS Testing Services (Thailand) Co., Ltd. 34/13 Moo 15, Klong Song Sub-district
Klong Luang District, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand Tel.: +66 2 700 9665
Website: www.alstestng.co.th
Email: pathumthani@alsglobal.com
Read more⏰ Time: 8:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. 👩⚖️ Speaker Ms. Warunee Pusatjapong, Business Manager
Business Unit Manager and Laboratory Testing Expert Webinar Objectives This webinar will provide participants with a fundamental understanding of “Cleanliness of Components and Systems for Road Vehicles — VDA 19.1,” including testing methods and the application of test results in the automotive industry. (The webinar will be conducted in Thai language) Webinar Content : 1. Introduction and selection 2. Extraction methods
2.1) Liquid extraction: Pressure rinsing, agitation, ultrasonic extraction, and internal rinsing
2.2) Air extraction: Air-jet extraction and air-throughflow extraction 3. Filtration and analysis 4. Declining curve 5. Routine inspection 6. Evaluation of results ✅✅How to Receive the Webinar Link and Certificate ✅✅ Simply complete these 3️⃣ easy steps:⬇️ 1️⃣ Follow the ALS Facebook page by scanning the QR code below. 2️⃣ Share the VDA 19 online seminar post. 3️⃣ Comment “Interested/สนใจ” under the VDA 19 online seminar post and wait to receive the webinar link via Messenger. https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19bEVMuQkP/?mibextid=wwXIfr For More Information Marketing Department : 1.Kamonworanee Theptaranonth (Jib) Tel.: +66 94 480 4705
Email: K.Theptaranonth@ALSGlobal.com 2.Hathaikan Israngkur (A) Tel.: +66 94 480 4706
Email: hathaikan.israngkur@alsglobal.com 3.Rata Nora-anankul (Jin) Tel.: +66 83 858 1323
Email: rata.noraanankul@alsglobal.com ALS Testing Services (Thailand) Co., Ltd. 34/13 Moo 15, Klong Song Sub-district
Klong Luang District, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand Tel.: +66 2 700 9665
Website: www.alstestng.co.th
Email: pathumthani@alsglobal.com
May 14, 2026
C3 (Critical Cleanliness Control®) — The Next Level of PCB Cleanliness Testing
ALS Testing Services (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
New Service
Special Offer : 2,000 baht
(Regular Price: 3,000 baht)
️ Promotional Details — Limited Time Offer
ALS is proud to offer C3 testing at a special introductory price:
Regular Price
Promotional Price
C3 Testing Service
฿3,000
✅ ฿2,000
️ Promotion Period: May 15 – August 14, 2026 (Limited-time offer — secure your slots early!)
The Hidden Threat on Every PCB
In today’s electronics manufacturing landscape, cleanliness is not just a matter of aesthetics — it is a fundamental quality and reliability requirement. Every printed circuit board (PCB) that passes through a production line is exposed to a wide range of potential contaminants: flux residues, ionic salts, process chemicals, airborne particulates, moisture, and even fingerprint oils from human handling.
What makes this especially dangerous is that many of these contaminants are invisible to the naked eye. A PCB may look perfectly clean under normal inspection — yet still carry enough ionic contamination to cause field failures months or years down the line.
The consequences of neglecting PCB cleanliness can be severe:
️ Moisture absorption by residual ionic salts
⚙️ Electrochemical corrosion of copper traces and solder joints
️ Electromigration and dendritic growth — microscopic conductive bridges forming between circuit traces
⚡ Leakage currents and short circuits
Complete board failure — often unpredictable and difficult to trace in the field
This is why cleanliness testing is no longer optional — it is a critical step in any robust quality assurance and reliability program.
What Is C3 (Critical Cleanliness Control®)?
C3 (Critical Cleanliness Control®) is a state-of-the-art, localized ionic cleanliness testing technology designed specifically to address the limitations of traditional cleanliness measurement methods.
At its core, C3 works by using ultra-pure deionized water as an extraction medium. A precisely controlled volume of water is applied to a specific, targeted area of the PCB surface. The water extracts ionic contaminants from that localized zone, and the resulting solution is then analyzed by measuring its electrical conductivity and resistance. From these measurements, the instrument calculates the Corrosivity Index (C.I.) — a standardized indicator of contamination level and potential corrosion risk.
The fundamental principle is elegant in its simplicity:
The more ionic contamination present, the higher the electrical conductivity of the extract → the higher the C.I. value → the greater the risk.
Conversely:
✅ Low C.I. = Clean PCB = Low corrosion risk = Reliable product
The Science Behind Ionic Contamination
To fully appreciate the value of C3 testing, it is important to understand why ionic contamination is so harmful at a fundamental level.
What Are Ionic Contaminants?
Ionic contaminants are electrically charged chemical species (ions) — both positively charged cations (e.g., Na⁺, K⁺, Ca²⁺) and negatively charged anions (e.g., Cl⁻, Br⁻, SO₄²⁻) — that remain on the PCB surface after manufacturing.
Common sources include:
Contamination Source
Typical Ionic Species
Solder flux residues
Organic acids, halide activators (Cl⁻, Br⁻)
Human handling
NaCl (sodium chloride) from perspiration
Process water
Calcium, magnesium, chloride ions
Atmospheric dust
Mixed ionic salts
Cleaning agent residues
Surfactant ions, alkaline species
PCB substrate outgassing
Various organic ionic compounds
⚠️ The Electrochemical Failure Mechanism
When ionic contaminants combine with moisture — even at normal ambient humidity levels — they form a thin electrolytic film on the PCB surface. In the presence of an applied electric field (i.e., a powered circuit), this sets off a chain of electrochemical reactions:
Ionic contamination+H2O+Electric field→Electrochemical corrosion+Dendritic growthIonic contamination+H2O+Electric field→Electrochemical corrosion+Dendritic growth
Dendritic growth (also called electrochemical migration or ECM) is particularly insidious: metallic ions dissolved from corroding conductors are redeposited as branching, tree-like conductive filaments that can bridge adjacent circuit traces, causing intermittent or permanent short circuits. These failures are notoriously difficult to diagnose after the fact.
Traditional Testing vs. C3 — Understanding the Difference
❌ Traditional Methods: ROSE Testing (Resistivity of Solvent Extract)
For decades, the industry relied primarily on ROSE (Resistivity of Solvent Extract) testing — standardized under IPC-TM-650 Method 2.3.25 — as the go-to cleanliness measurement. In ROSE testing, the entire PCB is immersed in a mixture of isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and deionized water, and the total ionic contamination of the whole board is measured.
While ROSE testing provides a useful global cleanliness benchmark, it has well-recognized limitations:
❌ It gives only a board-average result — it cannot identify where contamination is located
❌ High-risk localized zones (e.g., beneath dense IC packages) may have dangerous contamination levels that are diluted and masked by cleaner areas elsewhere on the board
❌ It cannot be performed on boards with components or coatings already applied
❌ Results are not spatially resolved — they provide no actionable guidance for process engineers
✅ C3: The Localized, Targeted Solution
C3 was developed precisely to overcome these limitations. Rather than flooding the entire board, C3 applies its extraction water to a precisely defined, small area — as small as a few square centimeters — enabling point-by-point contamination mapping of the PCB surface.
Feature
ROSE / Traditional Testing
C3 (Critical Cleanliness Control®)
Testing Area
Entire board (global average)
Specific localized zones
Spatial Resolution
None
High — point-by-point mapping
Under-component testing
❌ Not possible
✅ Capable (QFN, BGA, etc.)
Non-destructive
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
Speed
Moderate
⚡ Rapid — near-immediate results
Process trend monitoring
Limited
✅ Full C.I. trend tracking
Actionability
Low
High — identifies specific problem areas
Key Advantages of C3 Testing
1. Localized, Targeted Testing
Unlike global testing methods, C3 allows engineers to test exactly where it matters most — directly beneath high-density IC packages, in solder joint crevices, around connector interfaces, or any zone identified as high-risk. This targeted approach dramatically increases the sensitivity and relevance of the contamination data.
2. ⚡ Rapid, Real-Time Results
C3 delivers results almost immediately after sample extraction. This makes it ideal for in-line or at-line quality control, enabling rapid feedback during production rather than waiting for lengthy laboratory turnaround times.
3. Fully Non-Destructive
The C3 extraction process uses only ultra-pure water and causes zero physical or electrical damage to the PCB, its components, solder joints, or surface finishes. The tested board can proceed normally through the production process or be returned to the customer without any impact on its integrity.
4. Process Trend Monitoring and SPC Integration
Because C3 generates quantitative C.I. data for specific locations, it is perfectly suited to Statistical Process Control (SPC) integration. Engineers can plot C.I. values over time to:
Identify process drift before it causes failures
Evaluate the effectiveness of cleaning process changes
Establish and maintain cleanliness control limits
Generate compliance documentation for customers and auditors
5. Hidden Zone Inspection (Under-Component Testing)
One of the most powerful capabilities of C3 is its ability to assess contamination beneath components — including low-standoff packages such as QFN (Quad Flat No-Lead) and BGA (Ball Grid Array) devices, where conventional inspection is physically impossible. This is increasingly critical as component miniaturization continues and the standoff gap between package and PCB becomes ever smaller.
Applications Across the Electronics Manufacturing Lifecycle
C3 is a versatile tool applicable at multiple stages of PCB fabrication, assembly, and quality assurance:
✔️ 1. Post-Soldering Cleanliness Verification
After wave soldering, reflow soldering, or selective soldering operations, flux residues — especially from no-clean flux formulations — may remain on the PCB surface. C3 provides a quantitative measure of residual ionic contamination, enabling engineers to determine whether cleaning is required or whether the no-clean residues are within acceptable limits.
✔️ 2. Pre-Conformal Coating Inspection
Conformal coating is applied to protect PCBs in harsh environments (humidity, chemicals, vibration). However, if ionic contamination is present beneath the coating, moisture can penetrate and trigger under-coating corrosion and delamination, causing the coating to fail. C3 testing before coating application ensures that the substrate is clean and that the coating will perform as intended.
✔️ 3. In-Line Production Quality Control
C3 can be integrated into the production quality control workflow as a routine check at defined process stages. By monitoring C.I. values at regular intervals, manufacturing teams can maintain consistent cleanliness standards and rapidly detect when a process step (e.g., a solder paste applicator, a flux dispensing system, or a cleaning machine) begins to drift out of specification.
✔️ 4. PCB Failure Analysis (FA)
When a PCB is returned from the field due to a reliability failure, C3 is an invaluable tool in the failure analysis process. By mapping the contamination profile of specific areas on the failed board — and comparing it against reference (non-failed) boards — engineers can determine whether ionic contamination played a role in the failure and identify its likely source.
✔️ 5. Cleaning Process Validation and Optimization
When introducing or validating a new cleaning chemistry, cleaning machine, or cleaning process parameter, C3 provides the quantitative data needed to confirm that the process effectively removes contamination from all critical zones, including those beneath low-standoff components.
✔️ 6. Incoming Material and Bare Board Inspection
C3 can also be applied to bare PCB substrates and incoming solder paste or flux materials to verify their ionic contamination levels before they enter the production line — preventing contamination from being introduced at the very start of the manufacturing process.
Understanding the Corrosivity Index (C.I.)
The primary output of C3 testing is the Corrosivity Index (C.I.), a dimensionless numerical value derived from the electrical conductivity measurement of the extraction solution. The C.I. provides a direct, standardized, and comparable measure of ionic contamination for any tested location.
C.I. Interpretation Guide:
C.I. Value Range
Cleanliness Status
Risk Level
Recommended Action
Low ✅
Excellent — PCB is clean
Very Low
No action required; approve for next process
Moderate ⚠️
Acceptable — minor contamination
Low–Medium
Monitor trend; review process
High ❌
Contamination detected
High
Investigate source; consider re-cleaning
Very High ❌❌
Heavy contamination
Critical
Do not proceed; immediate corrective action
Note: Specific C.I. acceptance thresholds should be established based on the end-use application, customer requirements, and applicable industry standards (e.g., IPC-7711/7721, IPC-6012, IPC-A-610).
Industry Standards and Regulatory Context
The importance of PCB cleanliness is recognized and mandated by major international electronics industry standards:
IPC-7711/7721 — Rework, Modification and Repair of Electronic Assemblies
IPC-6012 — Qualification and Performance Specification for Rigid Printed Boards
IPC-A-610 — Acceptability of Electronic Assemblies
IPC-TM-650 2.3.25 — Ionic Cleanliness Testing
J-STD-001 — Requirements for Soldering Electrical and Electronic Assemblies
MIL-PRF-31032 / MIL-P-55110 — Military specifications for PCB reliability
C3 testing supports compliance with these standards by providing the localized, quantitative, and traceable cleanliness data that global testing methods cannot supply.
Contact Us
For inquiries, quotations, and sample submissions, please contact our Marketing Team:
+66 94 480 4705 +66 94 480 4706 +66 83 858 1323
➡️ Click here to view full promotion details
Read moreMay 13, 2026
Cross-Sectional Analysis for Electronic Devices: Seeing What the Naked Eye Can’t
When the Real Problem Is Hidden Inside
In electronics manufacturing, the most critical defects are often the ones you can’t see. A hairline crack in a solder joint, a void in a plating layer, an invisible delamination between PCB layers — any of these can cause a device to fail unpredictably in the field, with consequences ranging from product recalls to safety incidents.
Cross-sectional analysis is the technique that makes the invisible visible. By physically sectioning a component and examining its internal structure with precision instruments, engineers gain access to information that no surface inspection can provide — and that information is often the difference between a reliable product and an expensive failure.
What Is Cross-Sectional Analysis — and Why Does It Matter?
Cross-sectional analysis involves preparing a material or device specimen by cutting, mounting, and polishing it to reveal a precise internal cross-section, then examining that section under high-powered microscopy. It’s routinely applied to PCBs, PCBAs (assembled boards), integrated circuits (ICs), and a wide range of other electronic and industrial components.
The Five Core Objectives
Table
Objective
What It Delivers
Defect Detection
Identifies incomplete connections, solder defects, and structural flaws before they cause failures in the field
Material Quality Assessment
Evaluates layer thickness, density, mechanical strength, and durability — informing better material selection decisions
Failure Analysis
Traces the root cause of device failures with scientific precision, not guesswork
Product Development
Reveals weaknesses in current designs and provides the data needed to build better, more reliable products
Cost Reduction
Catching defects early in production is dramatically cheaper than recalls, rework, or warranty claims downstream
Step-by-Step: The Cross-Sectional Analysis Process
Reliable results depend on rigorous, standardized preparation. Here’s how the process unfolds at ALS:
Stage 1: Sample Preparation
Document the sample Before any cutting begins, the specimen is photographed in full — capturing the overall condition and the specific area of interest. This creates a visual baseline for the entire analysis.
Precision cutting The specimen is cut using specialized equipment, maintaining a minimum distance of 1.0 cm from the region of interest to avoid cutting-induced damage. If the area is particularly sensitive, the sample is pre-mounted in epoxy resin to protect it during sectioning.
Ultrasonic cleaning The cut specimen is cleaned in an ultrasonic bath for 2–3 minutes, then thoroughly dried — removing any debris or contamination that could affect imaging quality.
Stage 2: Mounting (Casting)
The specimen is embedded in a precisely measured mixture of epoxy resin and hardener, cast into a mold that holds it securely in the correct orientation. Once fully cured, the mounted sample is carefully removed from the casting cup.
The casting cup is cleaned with IPA-soaked cloth after each use to remove cured resin residue — maintaining consistent mounting quality across samples.
✨ Stage 3: Grinding and Polishing
The mounted specimen is processed on a NANO 1000T Grinder-Polisher, working through progressively finer abrasives at controlled speeds until the cross-section surface is perfectly flat, smooth, and ready for microscopic examination.
Stage 4: Microscopic Analysis
Optical Microscopy Using a high-performance optical microscope at magnifications ranging from 10× to 500× (selected based on sample characteristics), the cross-section is systematically imaged and examined for visible defects, layer integrity, and structural anomalies.
SEM/EDX Analysis For deeper investigation, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) provides nanometer-level resolution imaging of internal structures, while Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX) identifies the elemental composition of specific areas — revealing not just where a problem exists, but what it’s made of.
Stage 5: Reporting
Analysis data — including images, measurements, and compositional findings — is compiled into a comprehensive report. Results are presented with supporting graphics, charts, and clear scientific interpretation, making findings accessible to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
The Technical Toolkit: Key Analysis Techniques
Optical Microscopy
Uses visible light to generate high-resolution images at the micrometer scale. The standard first step for examining solder joint quality, layer continuity, and surface-level defects in PCBs and electronic assemblies.
⚡ Electron Microscopy (SEM & TEM)
Replaces light with a focused electron beam to achieve nanometer-scale resolution — far beyond what optical microscopy can deliver. Essential for studying particle morphology, interface characteristics, and fine structural details that affect electrical and mechanical performance.
️ Metallographic Analysis
Chemical etching techniques are applied to reveal grain boundaries, phase distributions, and internal microstructure in metallic materials — enabling detailed assessment of structural continuity and micro-level defects.
Hardness Testing (Vickers / Rockwell)
Quantifies the mechanical properties of materials at the cross-section — including hardness, wear resistance, and strength — providing critical data for quality certification and material performance evaluation.
X-ray Analysis (XRD & XRF)
XRD (X-ray Diffraction) — Reveals crystal structure and phase composition of materials
XRF (X-ray Fluorescence) — Identifies elemental composition and detects contamination or impurities
Together, these techniques provide a complete chemical and structural picture of the material under investigation.
What Materials and Applications Can Cross-Sectional Analysis Examine?
Cross-sectional analysis is far more versatile than many realize. Beyond electronics, it has applications across virtually every field of materials science and engineering:
️ Electronic Materials
PCBs — Detecting soldering defects, delamination, via integrity issues, and layer thickness non-conformance
Electronic components — Capacitors, resistors, and ICs: internal structural assessment and material integrity verification
Metallic Materials
Metal alloys — Examining crystal structure, elemental distribution, and internal defects such as cracks or incomplete fusion
Industrial materials — Evaluating mechanical properties and wear resistance of steel and aluminum for structural and machinery applications
Chemical and Polymer Materials
Plastics and polymers — Analyzing internal structure, additive distribution, strength, and flexibility characteristics
Ceramic materials — Assessing internal structure, fracture resistance, and impact strength for industrial ceramic applications
Medical and Biomedical Research
Biological tissue — Studying cellular architecture, comparing cancerous and healthy cells, and evaluating tissue response to treatment
Vaccines and pharmaceuticals — Examining structural composition to assess formulation stability and efficacy
Social Sciences
Cross-sectional studies — Collecting population-level data at a single point in time to analyze factors influencing health outcomes, behaviors, and demographic trends — providing foundational data for longitudinal research
Why Choose ALS for Cross-Sectional Analysis?
ALS Testing combines state-of-the-art instrumentation — including high-performance optical microscopes, SEM/EDX systems, and precision grinding equipment — with years of hands-on expertise in electronics failure analysis and materials characterization.
Our ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory ensures that every analysis is conducted to the highest international standards, with results that are scientifically defensible, clearly communicated, and ready to support your quality decisions.
Whether you’re investigating a field failure, validating a new manufacturing process, or developing the next generation of electronic products, cross-sectional analysis with ALS gives you the internal insight you need to get it right.
Contact ALS Testing Services (Thailand)
ALS Testing Services (Thailand) Co., Ltd. Advanced chemical analysis and materials testing — powered by modern technology and specialist expertise.
Tel: +(66) 2700 9665 Email: pathumthani@alsglobal.com
When surface inspection isn’t enough — cut deeper with ALS. Contact our team today to discuss your cross-sectional analysis requirements.
Read moreMay 13, 2026
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): What They Are, Why They Matter, and How to Measure Them
The Invisible Chemicals Around Us
They’re in the paint on your walls, the fuel in your car, the cleaning products under your sink — and quite possibly, the air you’re breathing right now. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are a family of chemicals so pervasive that most people encounter them daily without realizing it.
VOCs are liquid or solid chemical compounds with low boiling points, meaning they evaporate easily at room temperature and enter the air we breathe. While some are relatively harmless, others pose serious risks to human health and the environment — making accurate detection, measurement, and control essential for industries, regulators, and communities alike.
Meet the Key Players: Common Types of VOCs
Benzene
A colorless aromatic hydrocarbon found in petrol, diesel, paints, and solvents. Benzene is classified as a known human carcinogen, with established links to leukemia and damage to the nervous system. Even low-level, long-term exposure carries significant health risks.
Formaldehyde
A colorless, pungent gas that dissolves readily in water. Widely used in wood-based manufacturing (plywood, particleboard) and household cleaning products, formaldehyde causes respiratory irritation, eye and skin reactions, and is associated with increased cancer risk with prolonged exposure.
Toluene
A benzene-like hydrocarbon with an added methyl group, found in petrol, solvents, and paints. Exposure to toluene can cause dizziness, headaches, and neurological impairment — particularly in poorly ventilated environments.
Xylene
A hydrocarbon with two methyl groups, used extensively in paint production, solvents, and fuels. Xylene exposure affects the eyes, respiratory system, and nervous system, and can be especially hazardous in occupational settings.
Where Do VOCs Come From?
VOC emissions come from a surprisingly wide range of sources — both natural and human-made:
Natural Sources
Decomposing organic matter — When plants and animals break down, bacteria release VOCs such as methane and ethylene as byproducts
Natural seepage — Petroleum deposits and geothermal activity can release VOCs naturally into the atmosphere
Combustion Sources
Industrial fuel burning — Power generation, manufacturing facilities, and industrial boilers burning oil, coal, or gas release significant VOC emissions
Vehicle exhaust — Fossil fuel-powered vehicles are a major source of urban VOC pollution, contributing to smog formation and air quality degradation
Industrial Sources
Manufacturing processes — Production of paints, solvents, rubber, plastics, and specialty chemicals involves extensive use of VOCs
Industrial operations — Equipment cleaning, maintenance, and chemical handling all generate VOC releases that must be carefully managed
Everyday Sources
Household products — Wall paints, cleaning agents, bleaches, fuels, and dry-cleaning fluids all contain VOCs that off-gas into indoor air
Home appliances — Printers, air conditioners, and other devices can emit low levels of VOCs during operation
The Health Impact: What VOC Exposure Does to the Body
Table
Health Effect
Symptoms & Consequences
️ Irritation
Eye, nose, and throat irritation — often the first sign of exposure
Respiratory problems
Breathing difficulties, airway constriction, worsening of asthma
Neurological effects
Dizziness, confusion, insomnia, and memory impairment
⚠️ Cancer risk
Certain VOCs (notably benzene) are classified carcinogens with documented links to leukemia
Environmental Consequences: Beyond Human Health
VOCs don’t just affect people — they damage the world around us:
Air Quality
VOCs react with nitrogen oxides in sunlight to form photochemical smog — the hazy, harmful air pollution common in urban areas. This ground-level ozone damages respiratory systems and reduces visibility.
Water Quality
When VOCs enter water bodies through spills or runoff, they become toxic to aquatic life — disrupting ecosystems and contaminating drinking water sources.
Soil Quality
VOCs that leach into soil inhibit plant growth and degrade soil health, with long-term consequences for agriculture and natural ecosystems in contaminated areas.
Controlling VOC Emissions: A Multi-Layer Approach
1. Standards and Legislation
Thailand has established regulatory limits for key VOCs in ambient air — for example:
Benzene: ≤ 1.7 µg/m³ annually
Vinyl Chloride: ≤ 10 µg/m³ annually
The Pollution Control Department enforces industry-specific VOC emission limits, backed by legally binding regulations.
2. Monitoring and Reporting
Continuous air quality monitoring in high-risk zones — near industrial facilities and fuel storage sites — tracks VOC levels in real time
Industry self-auditing ensures ongoing compliance and transparency in emissions reporting
⚙️ 3. Source Control
Vapor recovery systems at fuel storage facilities and service stations capture VOC emissions before they escape into the atmosphere
Process optimization in manufacturing reduces VOC usage and improves efficiency — achieving the same output with lower chemical inputs
4. Public Awareness and Participation
Community education on VOC risks and safe product use empowers people to reduce personal exposure
Environmental governance frameworks that include public participation create shared accountability for air quality in communities
How VOCs Are Measured: The Science of Detection
Accurate VOC measurement is the foundation of effective control — and the methods vary depending on whether you’re testing air, water, or soil.
VOC Measurement in Air
Sample Collection Air samples are collected using adsorption tubes or continuous sampling systems, where VOCs are captured at low temperatures onto an adsorbent material for later analysis.
Key Technologies:
Table
Technology
How It Works
PID (Photoionization Detector)
Uses a UV lamp to ionize organic gases, enabling rapid real-time concentration measurements in the field
GC-MS (Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry)
Separates and identifies individual VOC compounds with high precision — the gold standard for laboratory air analysis
Result: Real-time concentration data that enables immediate response to pollution events and supports regulatory compliance monitoring.
VOC Measurement in Water
Sample Collection Water samples are collected in sealed, airtight containers to prevent evaporation during transport to the laboratory — a critical step that preserves sample integrity.
Key Technologies:
Table
Technology
How It Works
GC-MS
Analyzes VOCs in water after sample preparation (e.g., salting out to concentrate compounds) for precise identification and quantification
HSGC (Headspace Gas Chromatography)
Forces dissolved VOCs to volatilize into the headspace above the sample, then analyzes the vapor — ideal for water matrices
Result: Accurate VOC concentration data essential for drinking water safety assessments and environmental compliance monitoring.
VOC Measurement in Soil
Sample Collection Soil samples are collected from multiple locations and sealed immediately in airtight containers to minimize VOC loss through evaporation — maintaining the reliability of results.
Key Technologies:
Table
Technology
How It Works
SPE (Solid Phase Extraction)
Isolates and purifies VOC compounds from the soil matrix before analysis
GC-MS
Identifies and quantifies VOC contaminants in soil with high sensitivity and specificity
Result: Soil VOC data enables comprehensive environmental risk assessment — particularly critical for sites with a history of industrial activity, fuel spills, or chemical contamination.
Why Professional VOC Analysis Matters
Whether you’re an industrial operator managing emissions compliance, an environmental consultant assessing a contaminated site, or a manufacturer verifying product safety, accurate VOC analysis requires both sophisticated instrumentation and experienced scientific interpretation.
The consequences of getting it wrong — regulatory penalties, health liabilities, environmental damage — are far greater than the cost of getting it right.
ALS Testing Services (Thailand) Co., Ltd. _ Your VOC Analysis Partner
ALS Testing Services (Thailand) Co., Ltd. provides comprehensive VOC analysis across air, water, and soil matrices — powered by advanced analytical technology and a team of experienced specialists.
Our capabilities include:
✅ GC-MS analysis for precise VOC identification and quantification
✅ Headspace GC for liquid and water-phase VOC testing
✅ Field and laboratory sampling support
✅ Results delivered to international standards with full technical interpretation
Tel: +(66) 2700 9665
Email: pathumthani@alsglobal.com
From regulatory compliance to product safety verification — contact ALS Testing today for VOC analysis you can rely on.
Read moreMay 13, 2026
Component Cleanliness: The Hidden Factor That Keeps Industry Running
When Clean Isn’t Just Tidy — It’s Critical
In precision manufacturing, a single microscopic particle in the wrong place can bring an entire system to a halt. Component cleanliness — the rigorous process of ensuring that manufactured parts are free from contamination — is one of the most important yet often overlooked disciplines in modern industry.
Whether you’re producing automotive parts, aircraft components, electronic assemblies, or industrial machinery, contamination control isn’t a finishing step. It’s a fundamental quality requirement that directly impacts performance, safety, and service life.
7 Reasons Component Cleanliness Can’t Be Ignored
1. Preventing Wear and Component Damage
Unwanted particles — dust, metal shavings, oil residues — act like sandpaper inside precision mechanisms. When contaminants infiltrate moving parts, they accelerate friction and wear, causing components to degrade far faster than designed. Proper cleaning dramatically extends component service life and protects the investment in precision manufacturing.
⚙️ 2. Eliminating Jamming and Operational Irregularities
In systems where components move or interact — such as engines, hydraulic circuits, or pneumatic systems — even minor contamination can disrupt smooth operation. The result? Sluggish movement, unexpected jamming, or complete system seizure. Clean components move as designed: reliably, smoothly, and without interruption.
3. Reducing Fire and Explosion Risk
In chemical processing and aerospace applications, contamination isn’t just a mechanical problem — it can be a safety hazard. Accumulated chemical residues or reactive substances inside components can trigger unintended chemical reactions or generate dangerous heat buildup. Regular cleaning eliminates this risk before it becomes a crisis.
4. Protecting Product Quality
In electronics and pharmaceutical manufacturing, even trace-level contamination on sensitive components can compromise the entire product — causing functional defects, failed inspections, or non-compliance with quality standards. Component cleanliness ensures that what comes off the production line meets specification, every time.
5. Preventing Cascading Production Problems
Contamination doesn’t stay in one place. Dirty components introduce particles into manufacturing equipment, causing blockages, inconsistent outputs, and efficiency losses that compound over time. Cleaning at each stage of production keeps the entire manufacturing process running smoothly — preventing small problems from becoming expensive shutdowns.
6. Reducing Maintenance Costs
Clean components simply last longer and break down less frequently. By preventing contamination-related damage, regular cleanliness protocols significantly reduce repair and replacement costs — delivering measurable savings over the life of equipment and machinery.
7. Meeting Industry Standards and Regulatory Requirements
Component cleanliness is not just good practice — in many industries, it’s a mandatory requirement. Standards such as ISO, ASTM, VDA 19, and ISO 16232 define specific cleanliness thresholds that must be met. Compliance protects product quality, supports certification, satisfies legal obligations, and demonstrates a genuine commitment to safety.
The Bottom Line
Component cleanliness is one of the most cost-effective investments in manufacturing quality. When contamination is controlled:
✅ Components last longer ✅ Systems run more reliably ✅ Production processes stay efficient ✅ Safety risks are minimized ✅ Products consistently meet international standards
Neglecting it, on the other hand, invites a cascade of preventable failures — from premature wear and system downtime to product recalls and safety incidents.
ALS Testing: Your Partner in Cleanliness Verification
ALS Testing Services provides a comprehensive range of component cleanliness testing and analysis capabilities — giving you the scientific data to verify cleanliness levels, identify contamination sources, and make confident quality decisions.
Our Testing Instruments and Capabilities
Table
Instrument / Method
What It Does
FT-IR & FT-IR Microscopy
Identifies organic contaminants, polymer residues, and unknown substances on component surfaces
Liquid Particle Counter (LPC)
Measures and counts suspended particles in liquid — ideal for hydraulic fluids and cleaning baths
VDA 19 / ISO 16232-2018 Particle Analysis
Industry-standard measurement and counting of particles on automotive components
Ion Chromatography (IC)
Quantifies residual ionic contamination — critical for corrosion prevention and electronic reliability
HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography)
Separates and analyzes complex chemical mixtures including coatings, additives, and process residues
SEM/EDX
High-resolution surface imaging combined with elemental analysis — pinpoints the composition and origin of contamination particles
GC/MS (Liquid & Gas Sample Preparation)
Identifies and quantifies volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds in both liquid and gas-phase samples
Why Choose ALS?
✅ ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory — internationally recognized, reliable results
State-of-the-art analytical instruments — the right tool for every contamination challenge
Experienced specialist team — expert interpretation and actionable recommendations
Serving multiple industries — automotive, electronics, aerospace, pharmaceutical, and more
Contact ALS Testing Services (Thailand)
ALS Testing Services (Thailand) Co., Ltd. Advanced chemical analysis and materials testing — powered by modern technology and specialist expertise.
Tel: +(66) 2700 9665
Email: pathumthani@alsglobal.com
Don’t leave cleanliness to chance. Contact our team today to find the right testing solution for your components and your industry.
Read moreMay 13, 2026
PCB Testing: Ensuring Every Circuit Performs When It Matters Most
The Tiny Board Behind Every Big Technology
From the smartphone in your pocket to life-saving medical devices and satellite systems, Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) are the invisible backbone of modern electronics. These precisely engineered boards use etched copper pathways on insulating substrates to mount and connect electronic components — and when they fail, everything built around them fails too.
That’s why PCB testing isn’t optional. It’s essential.
Comprehensive testing throughout the design, manufacturing, and assembly stages is the only reliable way to ensure a PCB will perform consistently and safely — across every application, in every environment it was built for.
Why PCB Testing Is Non-Negotiable
1. Quality Assurance That Protects Your Product
A PCB defect doesn’t stay confined to the board — it becomes a system failure. Testing identifies and resolves issues before a defective board ever makes it into a finished product, safeguarding both performance and reliability.
2. Catching Problems Early Saves Money
The earlier a defect is found, the cheaper it is to fix. Detecting a fault on the production line costs a fraction of what it costs to address the same problem after assembly, shipping, or — worst of all — after a customer complaint. PCB testing directly reduces rework, scrap, warranty claims, and recall costs.
3. ️ Reliability Where It Counts Most
PCBs power some of the world’s most critical systems — medical devices, aerospace equipment, industrial controls. In these applications, failure isn’t just inconvenient; it can be dangerous. Rigorous testing ensures every board meets the reliability standards required to perform under demanding, real-world conditions.
4. Defect Detection Across the Full Spectrum
PCB testing covers a wide range of potential failure modes:
Short circuits and open circuits
Soldering defects
Component misplacement or misalignment
Material inconsistencies
Thorough testing catches these issues systematically — not by chance.
5. ✅ Process Verification, Not Just Product Inspection
PCB testing isn’t just about finding what went wrong — it verifies that the entire manufacturing process is working correctly. From etching and drilling to soldering and component placement, testing confirms that every step consistently meets specification.
6. ⚡ Functional Verification
Beyond physical inspection, PCBs must be verified to work as intended. This means testing:
Electrical connectivity
Signal integrity
Component functionality across the entire board
7. ️ Environmental Stress Testing
Depending on the application, PCBs may face extreme temperatures, high humidity, vibration, or thermal cycling in service. Environmental testing determines whether a board can withstand these stresses without performance degradation — a critical checkpoint for any product going into challenging conditions.
Testing Standards: The Framework for PCB Quality
PCB testing is governed by widely recognized international standards that define acceptance criteria and test methodologies. The most commonly applied specifications include:
Table
Standard
Application
IPC-6012
Qualification and performance for rigid PCBs
IPC-6013
Flexible and rigid-flex printed boards
IPC-6016
High-density interconnect (HDI) boards
IPC-6018
Microwave end-product boards
MIL-PRF-55110
Military-grade rigid PCBs
MIL-P-50884
Military flexible printed wiring
MIL-PRF-31032
Military printed circuit board manufacturing
Testing to these standards ensures your PCBs meet both commercial and defense-grade quality benchmarks — supporting certification, supplier qualification, and market access globally.
ALS PCB Testing Capabilities
ALS Testing provides a comprehensive suite of PCB testing services covering both raw materials and fully assembled PCAs (Printed Circuit Assemblies). Our capabilities include:
Ionic Cleanliness Testing (IC / ROSE)
Ionic Contamination (IC) testing and Resistivity of Solvent Extract (ROSE) testing measure the level of ionic contamination on a PCB surface — residues from flux, cleaning agents, or handling that can cause corrosion, current leakage, or dendritic growth over time.
Even trace ionic contamination can significantly shorten a PCB’s service life, particularly in high-humidity environments.
Advanced Instrumental Analysis: FT-IR & SEM/EDX
FT-IR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) Identifies organic compounds, polymer residues, contaminants, and coating materials on PCB surfaces. Ideal for pinpointing the chemical nature of unknown substances affecting board performance.
SEM/EDX (Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis) Delivers high-resolution surface imaging combined with precise elemental analysis — enabling detailed investigation of solder joint quality, surface contamination, corrosion mechanisms, and coating integrity at the microscale.
IPC-TM-650 Test Methods
A comprehensive set of standardized test procedures covering mechanical, chemical, electrical, and environmental properties of PCB materials and assemblies — the industry’s definitive testing reference.
️ Thermal Analysis: DSC & TGA
DSC (Differential Scanning Calorimetry) Measures thermal properties such as glass transition temperature (Tg), melting point, and cure state of PCB laminates — critical data for predicting how a board will behave at operating temperatures.
TGA (Thermogravimetric Analysis) Evaluates material stability and decomposition behavior under heat — essential for understanding the long-term thermal durability of PCB materials.
Cross-Section Analysis
One of the most revealing techniques in PCB failure investigation. Cross-sectioning exposes the internal structure of through-holes, vias, solder joints, and plating layers — allowing direct visual assessment of manufacturing quality and the root cause of failures that aren’t visible from the surface.
The ALS Advantage: Experience You Can Rely On
ALS Testing has been delivering PCB quality testing for many years, building deep expertise across a wide range of board types, standards, and failure scenarios.
When a problem is detected, our team doesn’t just report a result — we help you understand it. From evaluating overall board quality to conducting thorough failure analysis, ALS provides the scientific insight and technical guidance needed to resolve issues efficiently and prevent them from recurring.
Summary: Build Boards You Can Trust
PCB testing is one of the highest-return investments in electronics manufacturing. It protects your product quality, reduces costs, ensures regulatory compliance, and — most importantly — ensures that the products you put into the world work reliably for the people who depend on them.
Whether you’re qualifying new materials, investigating a field failure, or implementing ongoing quality control, ALS Testing has the accreditation, the instruments, and the expertise to deliver results you can act on.
ALS Testing Services (Thailand) Co., Ltd. Advanced chemical analysis and materials testing
— powered by modern technology and specialist expertise.
Tel: +(66) 2700 9665
Email: pathumthani@alsglobal.com
Let’s make sure your PCBs perform exactly as designed — every time. Reach out to our team today.
Read moreMay 13, 2026
Particle & Contamination Analysis for Automotive Components
VDA 19 / ISO 16232 — Under ISO/IEC 17025 Accreditation
Why Cleanliness Is Critical in Automotive Manufacturing
In automotive manufacturing, invisible contamination can cause very visible — and very costly — failures. Microscopic particles left on components can block hydraulic systems, wear down precision surfaces, and trigger electronic malfunctions. That’s why the automotive industry has developed rigorous international standards to control component cleanliness.
ALS Testing provides comprehensive particle measurement, counting, and analysis services for automotive components in full compliance with VDA 19 and ISO 16232:2018 — the two most important cleanliness standards in the global automotive supply chain — conducted within our fully ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory.
Our testing goes beyond simple quality checks. It supports new product development, drives manufacturing process improvements, and provides the scientific data needed to protect product performance and safety in the field.
The Two-Stage Testing Process: VDA 19 / ISO 16232
ALS holds accreditation specifically covering ISO 16232 testing within the scope of our ISO/IEC 17025 certification. Our testing follows a structured two-stage methodology:
Stage 1: Decline Test — Validating Extraction Parameters
Before full particle analysis can begin, it’s essential to confirm that the extraction process itself is working correctly for your specific component. This is what the Decline Test establishes.
How it works:
The component undergoes a controlled extraction process to remove particles from its surface and internal passages
The extraction fluid is filtered through a membrane filter
The filter is analyzed using a Particle Analyzer
This process is repeated six times on the same component, yielding six individual filter membranes
Results from all six filters are plotted on a graph and evaluated against VDA 19 / ISO 16232 acceptance criteria
✅ If the results meet the standard’s requirements, the extraction parameters are validated — and the process moves on to Stage 2.
Think of this as calibrating your measurement process before taking the actual measurement. It’s what separates reliable data from guesswork.
Stage 2: Particle Analysis — Size, Quantity, and Classification
With validated extraction parameters in place, the component undergoes its full particle analysis according to VDA 19 standards. The extraction fluid is filtered and the membrane is examined using a Particle Analyzer to determine:
Table
Parameter
What It Tells You
Quantity
How many particles are present
Size
The dimensional range of particles detected
Type
What the particles are made of
Particle Classification
All detected particles are categorized into three types:
Metallic — Metal particles from machining, wear, or assembly
Non-Metallic — Rubber, plastic, ceramic, or mineral particles
Fiber — Natural or synthetic fiber contamination
Going Deeper: Advanced Identification Techniques
When standard particle analysis isn’t enough — for example, when you need to know the exact elemental composition or chemical identity of a contaminant — ALS applies specialized analytical techniques.
For Metallic Particles: SEM/EDX Analysis
Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis (SEM/EDX) is the gold standard for characterizing metallic particles at the microscopic level.
How It Works
SEM directs a focused electron beam across the particle surface, generating high-resolution images that reveal surface morphology and structural detail at the micrometer scale
EDX detects the characteristic X-rays emitted when the electron beam interacts with atoms in the sample — effectively producing a unique elemental fingerprint for each material
What SEM/EDX Can Tell You
Table
Capability
Application
Elemental composition at micrometer level
Identify what metal alloy a particle came from
Chemical mapping across a surface
Visualize element distribution in coatings or alloys
Surface and structural defect analysis
Detect cracks, wear patterns, and coating failures
Corrosion characterization
Trace signs of oxidation or chemical attack
Coating thickness and layer analysis
Verify coating integrity and uniformity
Why It Matters
SEM/EDX doesn’t just identify that a metallic particle exists — it tells you exactly where it came from. That’s the information you need to trace contamination back to its source in the manufacturing process and fix it permanently.
For Non-Metallic Particles & Fibers: FT-IR Analysis
Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) is the technique of choice for identifying non-metallic materials such as plastics, rubbers, resins, and fibers.
How It Works
Every chemical compound absorbs infrared light in a unique pattern — essentially a molecular fingerprint. FT-IR measures how a sample absorbs infrared radiation across different wavelengths, then matches that pattern against reference libraries to identify the material with high confidence.
Sample Types FT-IR Can Analyze
Table
State
Examples
Solid
Plastics, rubber, synthetic and natural fibers
Liquid
Cleaning agents, paints, oils, adhesives
Gas/Vapor
Volatile organic compounds
FT-IR Capabilities at ALS
High-Sensitivity MGT-A Detector — ensures precise, reliable measurements even at trace levels
Interchangeable Accessories (VATR, Liq-Cell, ZnSe Compression Cell) — enables analysis of samples in any physical state
Nicolet Nic-Plan Microscope — specialized for analyzing microscopic particles and trace contaminants
Applications
✅ Qualitative Analysis — Identify polymers, resins, adhesives, oils, and unknown contaminants ✅ Quantitative Analysis — Measure the concentration of specific chemical components in a sample
Key Advantages
Requires only a tiny sample — ideal for microscopic contaminants
Non-destructive — the sample can be preserved for further testing if needed
Fast and accurate — results are typically available quickly without complex preparation
Industries Served at ALS Pathumthani
FT-IR testing at ALS supports a broad range of sectors:
Automotive
Electronics & IT
Telecommunications
Plastics & Polymers manufacturing
Why Particle Analysis Matters to Your Business
Particle and contamination analysis isn’t just a laboratory exercise — it delivers measurable business value across the entire manufacturing operation.
✅ Tighter Quality Control
Understanding particle size and distribution enables manufacturers in automotive, food, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries to consistently meet product specifications — and catch deviations before they reach the customer.
⚙️ Optimized Production Processes
By monitoring particle characteristics in real time, manufacturers can fine-tune process conditions continuously — ensuring consistent output and reducing variability that leads to defects.
⏱️ Faster Problem Detection
Online particle analysis techniques enable real-time process monitoring, dramatically reducing the delays and blind spots associated with offline sampling. When something goes wrong, you find out immediately — not at the end of the production run.
Stronger R&D Capability
For research and development teams, particle analysis provides the material behavior data needed to design better products, develop new formulations, and understand how materials perform under real-world conditions.
Cross-Industry Applicability
The value of particle analysis extends well beyond automotive:
Table
Industry
Application
Food
Controlling powder particle size for texture and consistency
Pharmaceutical
Verifying drug particle size for efficacy and bioavailability
Chemical
Managing reagent and product particle size in manufacturing
Electronics
Detecting contamination in precision components
Reduced Production Costs
Better quality control means fewer defective products, less rework, and fewer costly recalls. Investing in particle analysis pays for itself through the waste and failure costs it prevents.
Why Choose ALS for VDA 19 / ISO 16232 Testing?
Table
What We Offer
What It Means for You
✅ ISO/IEC 17025 accredited
Results recognized internationally
Full VDA 19 / ISO 16232 scope
End-to-end testing under a single accredited roof
⚙️ Advanced SEM/EDX & FT-IR capability
Deep-dive identification when standard analysis isn’t enough
Experienced specialist team
Accurate analysis and actionable interpretation
Comprehensive reporting
Clear results ready for customer submission or internal QC
Ready to take control of component cleanliness? Contact ALS Testing Services (Thailand) Co., Lt. today to discuss your VDA 19 / ISO 16232 testing requirements — and let our experts help you meet the standards your customers and partners demand.
Tel: +(66) 2700 9665
Email: pathumthani@alsglobal.com
Read moreMay 13, 2026
Corrosion Testing & Salt Spray Test: How Strong Is Your Material Against the Elements?
When Rust Is More Than Just Ugly — It’s a Safety Risk
Every material degrades over time. But in industries where structural integrity is non-negotiable — construction, transportation, energy, aerospace, and marine — corrosion isn’t just a cosmetic issue. It’s a safety and business liability.
Corrosion testing gives manufacturers, engineers, and quality managers the data they need to answer a critical question before it becomes a costly problem: How long will this material last — and what will make it fail?
What Is Corrosion Testing?
Corrosion occurs when materials — particularly metals — react chemically with their environment. Water, oxygen, exhaust gases, acids, and alkalis are all common culprits. Corrosion testing is the systematic process of evaluating how well a material resists these reactions under controlled conditions.
The Four Goals of Corrosion Testing
Table
Objective
Why It Matters
⏳ Predict service life
Know how long a material will perform before it degrades
Select the right material
Match materials to specific environmental conditions — humidity, acidity, temperature
Improve production processes
Refine surface coatings or switch to more durable material options
️ Enhance safety
Prevent degradation that could lead to structural failure or hazardous conditions
The Gold Standard: Salt Spray Testing
Among all corrosion tests, the Salt Spray Test — also known as the Salt Fog Test — is one of the most widely used and internationally recognized methods for evaluating corrosion resistance.
By recreating a salt-laden, high-humidity atmosphere inside a controlled test chamber, the Salt Spray Test simulates the kind of corrosive environment that materials face in coastal regions, marine applications, and harsh outdoor settings — in a matter of hours or days, rather than months or years.
It’s the go-to test for industries including automotive manufacturing, aerospace, marine engineering, and construction — anywhere that materials must stand up to salt exposure over time.
How Does the Salt Spray Test Work?
The test follows a clear, standardized process designed to deliver consistent, reproducible results:
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Sample Preparation Test specimens are thoroughly cleaned and prepared to remove any surface contaminants that could interfere with accuracy. A clean baseline is essential for meaningful results.
⚙️ Step 2: Chamber Setup The test chamber is calibrated to precise environmental conditions as specified by the relevant standard — typically 35°C with controlled humidity — creating a uniform corrosive atmosphere for every test.
Step 3: Salt Fog Exposure A sodium chloride (NaCl) solution is atomized into a continuous fine mist within the sealed chamber. Specimens are exposed to this salt fog for a defined period — commonly 48, 96, or 240+ hours — depending on the standard and application requirements.
Step 4: Inspection and Evaluation Once the test period ends, each specimen is carefully examined for signs of corrosion damage, including:
Rust formation
Surface discoloration
Blistering or swelling
Cracking or delamination of coatings
International Standards: Testing You Can Trust Globally
Salt Spray Testing is governed by internationally recognized standards that ensure results are accurate, comparable, and credible across borders:
Table
Standard
Scope
Primary Industries
ASTM B117
The most widely adopted Salt Spray standard worldwide
Automotive, metal components
ISO 9227
International standard for salt corrosion testing
Construction materials, industrial equipment
JIS Z 2371
Japanese standard for Salt Spray testing
Machinery, industrial devices
Testing to these standards means your results are recognized by international buyers, regulatory bodies, and certification authorities — a critical advantage in export markets.
Reading the Results: What Does Your Material’s Performance Tell You?
Salt Spray Test outcomes provide clear, actionable insights into a material’s corrosion resistance:
Rust Formation
The appearance of rust is a direct indicator that the material’s protective barrier has been compromised. The earlier rust appears, the weaker the corrosion resistance.
Surface Discoloration
A material with strong corrosion resistance maintains its original color and appearance. Discoloration signals chemical breakdown at the surface.
Blistering or Cracking
Coating failure often appears as bubbling, peeling, or cracking — indicating that the protective layer has lost adhesion and can no longer shield the base material.
Where Salt Spray Testing Makes a Difference: Industry Applications
Automotive
Steel frames, alloy components, and exterior body parts are routinely tested to ensure they can withstand road salt, rain, and coastal driving conditions over the vehicle’s lifespan.
✈️ Aerospace
Aircraft components are exposed to high-altitude humidity and condensation. Salt Spray testing validates that critical parts maintain structural integrity in these demanding environments.
⚓ Marine
For vessels, offshore structures, and port infrastructure, resistance to saltwater corrosion isn’t optional — it’s essential. Salt Spray testing confirms that marine-grade materials live up to their name.
️ Construction
Structural fasteners, reinforcement materials, and cladding systems used in coastal or high-humidity environments must be rigorously tested before they’re trusted with long-term structural loads.
Maintaining Test Equipment: The Overlooked Key to Reliable Results
Even the best-designed test is only as good as the equipment running it. To ensure consistent, trustworthy results, Salt Spray test chambers require:
Regular cleaning — to prevent residue buildup that alters test conditions
Routine calibration — to verify that temperature, humidity, and spray concentration remain within specification
Periodic chamber inspection — to confirm structural integrity and seal performance
Skipping maintenance doesn’t just affect results — it can compromise the credibility of your entire testing program.
Summary: Why Salt Spray Testing Belongs in Your Quality Process
The Salt Spray Test is one of the most practical and cost-effective tools available for evaluating corrosion resistance. It delivers fast, standardized, internationally recognized results that help manufacturers:
✅ Validate material and coating performance before production
✅ Meet international quality and export requirements
✅ Identify weaknesses early — before they reach your customers
✅ Build products that genuinely last in the real world
Whether you’re developing a new coating system, qualifying a supplier’s materials, or troubleshooting a corrosion complaint from the field, Salt Spray testing gives you the answers you need — backed by science and international standards.
ALS Testing Services (Thailand) Co., Ltd. — Your Partner in Corrosion Testing
ALS Testing Services (Thailand) Co., Ltd. provides comprehensive chemical analysis and material testing services, powered by advanced technology and a team of experienced analytical specialists.
We offer Salt Spray Testing in full compliance with ASTM B117, ISO 9227, and JIS Z 2371, conducted within our ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory — delivering results you can rely on and present with confidence to clients and regulators worldwide.
Tel: +(66) 2700 9665 Email: pathumthani@alsglobal.com
Ready to put your materials to the test? Contact us today and let our experts guide you toward the right testing solution for your product and industry.
Read moreMay 13, 2026
Why Getting to the Root of the Problem Changes Everything
What separates good manufacturers from great ones? It’s not just the ability to build products — it’s the ability to understand why they fail, and prevent it from happening again.
Failure analysis and reliability testing sit at the heart of modern quality engineering. Organizations that invest in these processes consistently achieve lower costs, higher customer satisfaction, and stronger market reputations. The numbers back this up: studies show that 73% of production defects can be prevented when the right failure prevention methods are in place.
Let’s break down exactly what these processes involve — and why they matter to your business.
Part 1: Failure Analysis — Finding the Real Cause, Not Just the Symptom
What Is Failure Analysis?
Failure analysis is the systematic process of tracing a problem back to its true origin — whether in the manufacturing process, the machinery, or the material itself. Think of it as forensic science for your production line.
The goal isn’t just to fix what went wrong. It’s to understand why it went wrong — so it never happens again.
Why It Matters
✅ Identifies the root cause of production problems, not just surface symptoms
Leads to targeted, effective corrective actions
⏱️ Reduces wasted time and resources in future production cycles
Prevents costly product recalls before they ever occur
Does your business have a systematic failure analysis process in place? If not, you may be one production run away from an expensive recall.
ALS offers a range of specialized testing methods to help clients pinpoint the exact cause of damage or defects — whether related to contamination, material inconsistencies, or process-related issues.
Failure Analysis Services at ALS
Optical Microscope Examination The essential first step in any failure investigation. Optical microscopy reveals surface defects, cracks, chips, and structural anomalies that are invisible to the naked eye — providing a rapid, cost-effective overview before more advanced techniques are applied.
Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) When optical microscopy isn’t enough, SEM takes you deeper. With magnification capabilities far beyond conventional microscopes — and built-in EDX capability for precise elemental composition analysis — SEM is the go-to technique for detailed failure characterization. It answers not just what failed, but what the material is made of at the point of failure.
Foreign Material Identification Contamination is one of the leading causes of product failures across industries. This service identifies and characterizes unwanted foreign substances in products — critical for food, pharmaceutical, and electronics manufacturing, where even trace contamination can have serious consequences.
Micro-metrological Measurements Precision dimensional analysis at the microscale, including:
Step height measurement
Surface flatness measurement
Surface roughness measurement
These measurements detect dimensional deviations at the micrometer level — catching issues that would otherwise go unnoticed until a product fails in the field.
FT-IR Microscopy Analysis Ideal for identifying organic compounds and polymer materials, FT-IR microscopy can accurately characterize materials and contaminants at the microscopic level. It’s an essential tool for the plastics and polymer industries, and widely used in international reliability testing standards.
Cross-sectional Analysis Sometimes you need to look inside. Cross-sectional analysis reveals the internal structure of a material or component — making it invaluable for evaluating coating integrity, layer adhesion, and interface quality between dissimilar materials. The insights gained directly inform process improvements and defect prevention strategies.
Part 2: Reliability Testing — Proving Your Product Will Go the Distance
What Is Reliability Testing?
A product might look perfect coming off the production line. But will it still perform six months later, in a humid warehouse in Southeast Asia, or under the hood of a car in the middle of a desert summer?
Reliability testing answers that question — before your customers do.
It’s the process of evaluating whether a product or material will function correctly throughout its expected service life, under realistic operating conditions. By simulating environmental stresses in a controlled laboratory setting, reliability testing compresses years of real-world wear into days or weeks of accelerated testing.
The Business Case for Reliability Testing
Table
Benefit
Impact
️ Validated product quality and safety
Confidence before market launch
Reduced product recalls
Studies show reliability testing can cut recall rates by up to 60%
Stronger customer trust
Fewer complaints, higher loyalty
International market access
Products certified to global standards open new doors
Long-term brand reputation
Consistent quality becomes your competitive advantage
⚗️ Reliability Testing Methods
Temperature-Humidity Cycling Simulates the natural cycles of temperature and humidity that products encounter in real-world environments. This test is particularly effective at detecting material fatigue caused by repeated expansion and contraction — a common hidden cause of premature failure in electronics and structural components.
Thermal Shock Testing What happens when a product goes from freezing cold to intense heat in seconds? Thermal shock testing finds out. By exposing products to sudden, extreme temperature changes, this test reveals whether materials and joints can withstand the thermal stresses of demanding operating environments.
Chemical Compatibility Studies Not all materials play well with the chemicals around them. This testing evaluates how materials respond to chemical exposure over time — identifying degradation, swelling, or structural breakdown before it causes field failures. For industries ranging from automotive to pharmaceuticals, chemical compatibility is a non-negotiable checkpoint.
Salt Spray Chamber Testing A controlled simulation of salt-laden environments — essential for metal components used in marine, coastal, or high-humidity settings. Salt spray testing predicts corrosion resistance and helps engineers accurately estimate product lifespan under corrosive conditions.
Xenon Arc Testing (UV Weathering) Sunlight is one of the most damaging forces that outdoor products face. Xenon arc testing replicates the full spectrum of solar radiation to evaluate how materials — paints, plastics, coatings — degrade under prolonged UV exposure. Leading manufacturers use this in parallel with broader risk assessments to validate outdoor durability.
Reliability Testing by Industry: Which Tests Matter Most?
Table
Testing Method
Electronics
Automotive
Food & Pharma
Construction
Temperature-Humidity Cycling
●●●●
●●●
●●
●●
Thermal Shock
●●●●
●●●●
●
●●●
Chemical Compatibility
●●
●●●
●●●●
●●●●
Salt Spray Test
●●
●●●●
●
●●●●
Xenon Arc (UV) Test
●●
●●●
●●
●●●●
● = Relevance level (more dots = higher importance for that industry)
The Bottom Line: Failure Analysis + Reliability Testing = Competitive Advantage
In a market where quality expectations are rising and the cost of failures is higher than ever, failure analysis and reliability testing are no longer optional — they’re essential.
Together, these two disciplines give manufacturers a complete quality assurance framework:
Failure analysis tells you what went wrong and why — enabling precise, permanent fixes
Reliability testing confirms your product will perform as promised — under every condition your customer will encounter
Organizations that embrace both consistently outperform those that don’t — with lower defect rates, fewer recalls, stronger customer relationships, and a brand reputation built on genuine, proven quality.
Ready to strengthen your products with professional failure analysis and reliability testing? Contact our specialists today for a consultation tailored to your specific industry and product needs — and take the first step toward quality that your customers can count on.
Read moreMay 13, 2026
Why Failure Analysis and Reliability Begin with Understanding Your Materials
In manufacturing and engineering, using the wrong material — or not fully understanding the one you’re using — can be catastrophic. Material testing is how industry professionals eliminate that uncertainty. It ensures that every component, structure, and product performs exactly as intended, under real-world conditions.
In today’s industrial landscape, effective material testing doesn’t just improve product quality — it reduces production risks, enhances safety, and prevents costly failures before they happen.
What Is Material Testing?
At its core, material testing is a systematic process for examining and evaluating the properties of a material — how it behaves, what it can withstand, and where its limits lie. These properties fall into three key categories:
⚙️ 1. Mechanical Properties
How does the material respond when force is applied? This covers strength, flexibility, toughness, and resistance to repeated stress — the properties that determine whether a material holds up or breaks down under load.
2. Chemical Properties
How does the material interact with its environment? This includes its composition, reactivity, corrosion resistance, and behavior when exposed to chemicals — critical for products used in harsh or chemically active environments.
3. Physical Properties
What are the material’s inherent physical characteristics? Density, thermal conductivity, and electrical conductivity all fall here — properties that define how a material fits into its intended application.
Together, these three dimensions give engineers and manufacturers a complete picture of a material’s capabilities — and its vulnerabilities — before anything goes into production.
Two Fundamental Approaches to Testing
1. Destructive Testing (DT)
As the name suggests, this approach involves permanently altering or breaking the test specimen to extract precise data about its mechanical properties. It’s the go-to method when you need hard numbers and real-world simulations.
Common Destructive Tests:
Table
Test
What It Measures
Tensile Test
Strength and elasticity under pulling force
Impact Test
Toughness and resistance to sudden shock
Hardness Test
Resistance to surface deformation under pressure
Fatigue Test
Service life under repeated cyclic loading
Why it’s valuable:
Delivers accurate, quantitative data on mechanical behavior
Closely simulates real operating conditions
Backed by internationally recognized standards such as ASTM and ISO
️ 2. Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)
NDT examines materials and components without causing any damage — meaning the tested part can go straight back into service. It’s the preferred choice for quality control, in-service inspection, and detecting hidden defects.
Common Non-Destructive Tests:
Table
Test
What It Detects
Ultrasonic Testing
Internal cracks, voids, and inclusions
Radiographic Testing (X-ray)
Internal structural defects and anomalies
Liquid Penetrant Testing
Surface-breaking cracks and discontinuities
Magnetic Particle Testing
Surface and near-surface defects in ferrous materials
Why it’s valuable:
Zero damage to the component — ready to use immediately after testing
Cost-effective over the long term — no material wastage
Can be applied to structures and machinery already in service, such as bridges, pipelines, and industrial equipment
Chemical Analysis: Looking Deeper into Material Composition
Understanding a material’s physical behavior is only part of the story. Chemical analysis reveals what a material is made of and how it will react in its environment. This is especially critical in industries like hard disk manufacturing and automotive production, where contamination or compositional inconsistencies can cause serious failures.
Key Chemical Analysis Instruments
GC-MS (Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry) The gold standard for detecting organic compounds and contaminants. GC-MS separates and identifies volatile substances with extraordinary precision — down to the parts per million (ppm) or even parts per billion (ppb) level. Ideal for detecting trace impurities in materials.
HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography) Designed for analyzing complex liquid mixtures, particularly compounds that are non-volatile or heat-sensitive. Used to quantify surface coatings, additives, and residual substances in a wide range of materials.
IC (Ion Chromatography) A specialized technique for detecting and measuring ions in solution — particularly those responsible for corrosion. Critical for materials used in humid environments or those in contact with liquid media.
Specialized Chemical Property Testing
Chemical Resistance Testing
Studies how materials degrade when exposed to real-world chemicals
Measures changes in weight, shape, and mechanical properties after chemical exposure
Predicts service life in chemically aggressive environments
Corrosion Testing
Determines corrosion rates of metals across different environments
Investigates corrosion mechanisms and contributing factors
Evaluates the effectiveness of anti-corrosion coatings and treatments
Migration Testing
Checks whether materials release substances into food, packaging, or medical devices
Assesses safety compliance with health and regulatory requirements
Measures the quantity of released substances under simulated use conditions
The Real Business Case for Material Testing
Investing in material testing isn’t just about compliance — it’s about protecting your business at every level:
Table
Benefit
What It Means in Practice
✅ Quality Assurance
Confirms materials meet required specifications before production
Product Development
Provides the data needed to design better, smarter products
Failure Prevention
Identifies weaknesses before they become costly problems
Cost Reduction
Prevents expensive recalls, rework, and liability claims
Regulatory Compliance
Meets legal and industry requirements across sectors
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does material testing take? It depends on the type of test. Basic tests can be completed in a few hours, while complex evaluations — such as fatigue testing — may take several days or even weeks. A good laboratory will give you a clear timeline upfront.
Q: How do I know which testing method is right for my material? The right method depends on your objective, the type of material, and the properties you need to evaluate. Consulting with an experienced testing specialist ensures you choose the most efficient and accurate approach for your needs.
Q: Is material testing necessary for small businesses? Absolutely. Quality failures don’t discriminate by company size. The cost of a product recall, customer complaint, or safety incident will always far exceed the cost of testing. For small businesses especially, one quality failure can be devastating — making proactive testing a smart investment, not an optional extra.
The Bottom Line
Material testing is one of the most powerful tools available to manufacturers and engineers. Whether you’re validating a new material, troubleshooting a production issue, or ensuring compliance with international standards, systematic testing gives you the knowledge to make confident decisions.
The choice between destructive and non-destructive testing, mechanical and chemical analysis, isn’t an either/or — it’s a toolkit. The best results come from selecting the right combination for your specific application.
Investing in quality material testing doesn’t just protect your products — it protects your brand, your customers, and your bottom line.
For organizations that want true confidence in their products, partnering with an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory ensures that every test is conducted with the precision, reliability, and scientific rigor your industry demands.
Ready to put your materials to the test? Work with certified experts who can guide you from sample preparation to actionable results — and help you build products that genuinely last.
Read moreMay 13, 2026
Salt Spray Test: The Quality Check Your Metal Products Can’t Afford to Skip
What Is a Salt Spray Test?
Picture this: instead of waiting years to find out whether your metal product will rust in the real world, you get a reliable answer in a matter of hours. That’s the power of the Salt Spray Test.
This internationally recognized standard method evaluates how well metals and surface coatings resist corrosion — and it’s a non-negotiable quality checkpoint for products like fasteners, automotive components, and structural engineering materials. By recreating a highly concentrated salt fog environment inside a controlled test chamber, the test artificially accelerates the corrosion process — delivering in hours what nature would take months or years to produce.
The result? A clear, data-backed prediction of how your product will hold up in the real world.
Why Metal Products Need This Test
Every metal — regardless of how well it’s manufactured — is vulnerable to rust and degradation when exposed to moisture and corrosive agents. This is especially relevant in Thailand, where a hot, humid climate and extensive coastal regions mean that salt-laden air is a daily reality for many products.
And rust isn’t just a cosmetic problem. Corrosion attacks the core mechanical properties that make metal products reliable:
️ Structural strength
Tensile resistance
️ Impact durability
⏳ Overall service life
That’s why global standards bodies — ISO, ASTM, and JIS — have established strict Salt Spray Test requirements. Failing to meet these benchmarks doesn’t just mean a lower-quality product. It means market rejection, failed certifications, and significant financial consequences.
How the Test Works: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
The Salt Spray Test follows a precise, systematic process designed to ensure consistent and reliable results:
Step 1: Sample Preparation
Metal specimens are thoroughly cleaned per ISO 8407 to remove any contaminants that could skew results. They’re then carefully positioned inside the Salt Spray Chamber at the correct angle for uniform exposure.
⚙️ Step 2: Controlled Test Conditions
The chamber maintains tightly regulated parameters throughout the test:
NaCl concentration: 5% ± 0.5%
Temperature: 35°C ± 2°C
pH level: 6.5 – 7.2
These conditions create a standardized corrosive environment that is repeatable and comparable across laboratories worldwide.
⏱️ Step 3: Test Duration by Standard
Test duration depends on the product’s intended application and the applicable international standard:
Table
Duration
Standard
Application
48 hours
ISO 9227
General consumer products
96 hours
ASTM B117
Industrial-grade components
240+ hours
JIS Z 2371
Harsh environment, high-durability products
Step 4: Evaluation and Analysis
Once the test concludes, every specimen is assessed against strict criteria:
Rust coverage — must not exceed the allowable threshold
Coating adhesion — no peeling, blistering, or delamination permitted
Remaining coating thickness — must not fall below the minimum requirement
Post-test mechanical properties — strength and durability must be retained
What Happens When Products Fail the Test?
In today’s export-driven manufacturing landscape, failing a Salt Spray Test carries consequences that go far beyond a rejected sample:
❌ Lost Certifications
Products that fail cannot obtain international quality certification — locking them out of markets with strict quality requirements.
Entire Shipments Rejected
Real-world cases from metal parts exporters show that non-compliant products can lead to full-batch rejections — with manufacturers bearing the cost of return shipping on top of lost revenue.
Long-Term Reputation Damage
A track record of delivering below-standard products erodes client trust — and trust, once lost, is difficult to rebuild. Future business opportunities quietly disappear.
Expensive Rework and Delays
Reworking rejected products means additional raw material costs, extra production time, and delayed delivery schedules — a compounding financial drain that hits your bottom line hard.
Choosing the Right Testing Partner
Not all test results are created equal. The credibility of your Salt Spray Test depends heavily on the laboratory conducting it. Here’s what to look for — and why ALS Testing delivers on every count:
Why ALS Testing?
ALS Testing is an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory — the international gold standard for testing and calibration facilities. Our Salt Spray testing services are purpose-built for the metals industry, offering:
Table
What We Offer
What It Means for You
High-precision instruments
Regularly calibrated equipment ensures consistent, reliable results every time
20+ years of expertise
Scientists and engineers with deep, hands-on knowledge of metals and corrosion
Internationally recognized reports
Test certificates accepted by global buyers, auditors, and regulatory bodies
Technical consultation
Expert guidance on how to improve your product based on test findings
The Bottom Line
The Salt Spray Test isn’t just a bureaucratic checkbox — it’s a strategic safeguard for your product quality, your export credentials, and your business reputation.
In a competitive global market, partnering with an accredited, trusted laboratory like ALS Testing gives you the confidence that your products are built to last — and the certified proof to back it up.
Don’t wait for the market to find your product’s weaknesses. Find them first.
Contact ALS Testing today to schedule your Salt Spray Test and take the next step toward internationally certified quality.
Read moreMay 13, 2026
SEM-EDX: The Microscopic Eye That Reveals What Your Materials Are Really Made Of
In engineering, research, and industrial quality control, knowing exactly what your materials are made of isn’t just useful — it’s essential. That’s where SEM-EDX (Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy) comes in. This internationally recognized technique gives scientists and engineers an unprecedented look at material composition at the microscopic level, making it one of the most powerful analytical tools available today.
What Exactly Is SEM-EDX?
SEM-EDX combines two complementary technologies into one powerful system:
SEM — Scanning Electron Microscope
Imagine being able to zoom into a material’s surface up to 500,000 times its actual size, with nanometer-level resolution. That’s what SEM does. Instead of light, it uses a focused beam of electrons to generate incredibly detailed images of a material’s surface and internal structure — all in compliance with ISO/TS 24597.
⚡ EDX — Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy
While SEM shows you what something looks like, EDX tells you what it’s made of. When the electron beam strikes a material, it triggers the emission of X-rays with energy levels unique to each element. By measuring these X-rays, EDX can identify which elements are present and in what quantities — down to a detection limit of approximately 0.1–1% by weight.
Together, these two technologies give you a complete picture: both the physical structure and the chemical composition of a material, simultaneously, in the same location.
How Does It Actually Work?
The science behind SEM-EDX is sophisticated, but the process follows a clear and logical sequence:
Step 1: Sample Preparation
Samples are prepared according to ASTM E1508 standards — typically involving surface polishing, solvent cleaning, and in some cases, coating with a conductive material like gold or carbon to prevent charge buildup on non-conductive samples.
Step 2: SEM Imaging
When the electron beam hits the sample surface, it produces two types of signals:
Secondary electrons → reveal surface topography
Backscattered electrons → highlight compositional contrast
These signals are captured and reconstructed into high-resolution images that show the material’s microstructure in remarkable detail.
Step 3: EDX Elemental Analysis
High-energy electrons knock inner-shell electrons out of atoms, creating vacancies. When outer-shell electrons drop down to fill these gaps, they release X-rays — and crucially, each element releases X-rays at a characteristic energy level. This is essentially the element’s fingerprint.
Step 4: Identification and Quantification
The EDX detector captures these X-ray signals and compares them against reference databases using algorithms based on ISO 22309 and ASTM E1508 standards to identify elements and calculate their relative concentrations.
Typical accuracy:
Major elements: ±1–2%
Trace elements: ±5–10%
Why SEM-EDX Stands Out
Feature
What It Means for You
Micro-level precision
Analyze composition in areas as small as a few micrometers — ideal for examining grain boundaries, inclusions, or localized defects
️ Non-destructive analysis
The core sample structure remains intact, allowing follow-up testing with other techniques
Integrated analysis
Physical and chemical data are captured together, making correlations faster and more reliable
⏱️ Fast turnaround
Preliminary results in minutes; full analysis within 1–2 hours
Versatility
Works on metals, polymers, ceramics, composites, and semiconductors
What Are the Limitations?
No tool is perfect. Here’s what to keep in mind when using SEM-EDX:
Light element detection — EDX struggles with elements lighter than sodium (atomic number < 11). Hydrogen, helium, and lithium cannot be detected at all.
Quantitative precision — While highly capable, SEM-EDX may be less precise than dedicated techniques like XRF or ICP-MS for strict quantitative work.
Sample preparation requirements — Samples must have clean, smooth surfaces, which can occasionally be time-consuming and may alter the sample slightly.
Cost — SEM-EDX instruments are expensive to purchase and maintain, and require trained specialists to operate — making per-analysis costs higher than simpler methods.
Real-World Applications Across Industries
Metals & Materials
Case study: SEM-EDX identified sulfide segregation at crack boundaries in a failed oil pipeline — directly pinpointing the root cause of the failure (Journal of Failure Analysis and Prevention, Vol. 18, 2018)
Alloy composition verification per ASTM E1508
Phase segregation and elemental distribution analysis
Coating interface contamination detection
Electronics
Case study: SEM-EDX revealed silicon contamination in gold bonding layers as the cause of MEMS sensor failure (IEEE Transactions on Device and Materials Reliability, Vol. 20, 2020)
PCB and component defect analysis
Solder joint quality inspection
Semiconductor material characterization per IEC 61249
Automotive & Aerospace
Failure analysis of structural components
Weld quality and dissimilar material joint inspection
Wear and corrosion analysis per SAE J1757
R&D and Advanced Materials
Nanostructure characterization
Particle distribution analysis in composite materials
Thin-film uniformity inspection for electronics and solar cells
How to Choose the Right SEM-EDX Service Provider
Getting accurate, actionable results depends not just on the equipment — but on the expertise behind it. When selecting a laboratory, look for:
✅ ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation — The international gold standard for testing and calibration laboratories
✅ Modern, well-maintained instruments — Precision analysis requires instruments that are regularly calibrated and updated
✅ Experienced scientists and engineers — Skilled interpretation of SEM-EDX data is as important as the data itself
✅ Comprehensive reporting — Reports should include SEM images, EDX spectra, quantitative analysis, and expert interpretation — not just raw numbers
Why ALS?
ALS Testing is an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory with over 40 years of experience in materials analysis. We serve research institutions, universities, and industrial clients across a wide range of sectors — delivering:
High-precision SEM-EDX analysis using state-of-the-art instruments
Expert consultation and technical guidance
Actionable insights to help you solve problems and improve product quality
Whether you’re investigating a product failure, developing a new material, or verifying a supplier’s specifications, ALS Testing gives you the analytical depth and scientific expertise to make confident, informed decisions.
The Bottom Line
SEM-EDX is one of the most powerful tools available for understanding what materials are made of and why they behave the way they do. By combining high-resolution imaging with precise elemental analysis in a single workflow, it delivers insights that are simply not possible with conventional testing methods.
Choosing an accredited, experienced laboratory partner ensures that those insights are accurate, reliable, and truly useful — whether for quality control, failure investigation, or cutting-edge research.
Contact ALS Testing Services (Thailand) Co., Ltd. today to learn how SEM-EDX analysis can help you build better products with greater confidence.
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