3. Characterization and classification of particles

Several complementary techniques are commonly used to evaluate the morphology, chemical composition, crystal structure, and surface reactivity of wear debris. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) allows detailed observation of the shape, size, and topography of particles with resolution down to the nanometer scale. In addition, automated image analysis is used to quantify the particle size distribution, density, and morphological statistical parameters of debris within a sample.

Chemically, energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), often coupled with SEM, provides elemental mapping of the chemical composition of particles, facilitating the identification of the phases present. FTIR (Fourier transform infrared) and Raman spectroscopy are particularly useful for detecting and identifying oxides, organic compounds, and other residues on the surface of debris, especially...