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  • Services
    Services
    • Solutions
      Solutions

      Failure Analysis & Root Cause Investigation

      Root cause investigation of material, process, and device failures.

      Compositional Analysis

      Compositional analysis identifies the chemistry of a material, down to its elements, molecules, and phases. These measurements verify purity and detect impurities before they impact design, production, or compliance.

      Metrology Consulting Services

      Expert guidance on your metrology strategy and implementation.

      Quality Control Testing

      The difference between good and exceptional lies in the details. Covalent's Quality Control services delve into those details, providing the assurance that your materials and components consistently uphold the highest benchmarks.

      Metallurgical Analysis

      Correlating microstructure to processing, properties, and performance of your metallic alloy systems using advanced sample preparation, testing, imaging, and spectroscopy.

      Material Verification

      Material verification is about knowing exactly what is in your materials. By evaluating materials against the specifications provided, Covalent helps you prevent costly mistakes, failures, and compliance risks.

      Contamination Analysis

      Identify and resolve particulate, chemical, or organic contaminants that compromise material quality, yield, or device function.

      Performance Optimization

      Behind every high‑performing product is a series of deliberate choices about materials and process. Covalent partners with you to refine those choices, translating real‑world behavior into smarter tuning, higher yield, and greater reliability.

    • Applications
      Applications

      Surface & Interface Properties

      Characterize coatings, thin films, and contamination with advanced material analysis to improve reliability and performance.

      Mechanical Testing

      Measure mechanical properties with our engineering testing expertise to validate material integrity and ensure optimal performance.

      Chemical & Compositional Properties

      The elements and structures within a material determine whether a product is safe, reliable, and built to last. Covalent’s chemical composition analysis services give you the clearest possible view of that chemistry.

      Metals Testing

      Identify and quantify metal composition, microstructure, and mechanical properties to ensure performance, reliability, and compliance for your application.

      Coatings Testing 

      From corrosion resistance to biocompatibility, our testing ensures stronger products and global compliance.

      Powder Testing

      Covalent delivers specialized powder characterization services, including powder testing for particle size, shape, and flow. We support metal powder testing services and additive manufacturing powder testing to optimize performance in pharma, energy, and industrial applications.

      Optical Characterization Testing

      Covalent provides precise optical characterization services, delivering critical data on optical properties and thickness for materials, semiconductors, thin films and coatings. Our advanced optical characterization techniques ensure performance, reliability, and compliance.

      Polymer & Plastic Analysis

      Covalent offers comprehensive polymer & plastic testing lab services for polymer analysis, failure analysis, and quality control. Get fast, actionable data to ensure quality, performance, and compliance.

  • Techniques
    Techniques
      • Electron Microscopy
        Electron Microscopy

        Atomic Resolution Electron Microscopy (AEM)

        Images atoms and maps composition, bonding, and strain.

        Differential Phase Contrast

        Visualize local electric fields at the nanoscale.

        Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscopy (FIB-SEM)

        Combines ion milling and electron imaging for nanoscale analysis.

        Nanoprobing

        Visualize local electric fields at the nanoscale.

        Precession Electron Diffraction (PED)

        PED is a TEM-based technique that rotates the electron beam for more precise crystallography at the nanoscale.

        Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) Analysis

        Images surface topography and composition with electrons.

        Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM)

        Provides atomic-scale imaging and spectroscopic mapping.

        Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM)

        Images atomic structure, defects, interfaces with sub-nm resolution.

      • Chemical Analysis
        Chemical analysis

        Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR)

        Rapid, non-destructive chemical identification.

        Auger Electron Spectroscopy (AES)

        Measures Auger electrons for high-resolution surface analysis.

        Dynamic Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (Dynamic SIMS)

        Quantifies elements and isotopes with nanometer depth profiling.

        Electron Probe Microanalysis (EPMA)

        Quantifies elemental composition at the micron scale.

        Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (EDXRF)

        Quick, non-destructive material composition & thickness analysis.

        Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR)

        Rapid, non-destructive molecular fingerprinting across materials.

        Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS)

        Identifies and quantifies small organic molecules in mixtures.

        Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC)

        Separates molecules by size to determine polymer properties.

        Glow Discharge Optical Emission Spectroscopy (GDOES)

        Sputters surfaces to quantify composition & depth-profile layers.

        Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)

        Measures trace elements with high accuracy.

        Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES)

        Quantifies multiple elements at very low concentrations.

        Ion Scattering Spectroscopy (ISS)

        Identifies elements in the outermost atomic layer.

        Nanoscale Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (NanoSIMS)

        Ultra-high-resolution elemental and isotopic imaging.

        Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA)

        Quantifies elements via gamma rays from irradiated samples.

        Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (NMR)

        Determines molecular structure, composition, and dynamics.

        Photo-induced Force Microscopy (PiFM)

        Nanoscale chemical characterization & topography at sub-5nm.

        Raman Spectroscopy

        Measures inelastic photon scattering for chemical identification.

        Rutherford Backscattering Spectroscopy (RBS)

        Quantifies elemental composition and thin-film thickness.

        Time of Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectroscopy (ToF-SIMS)

        Ultra-sensitive surface analysis with chemical imaging & depth profiling.

        Total Reflection X-ray Fluorescence (TXRF)

        TXRF is a surface sensitive elemental analysis technique used to determine the concentration of trace metal contamination on wafer surfaces.

        Ultraviolet Photoelectron Spectroscopy (UPS)

        Determines work function and valence electronic structure of surfaces.

        Ultraviolet Visible Near Infrared Spectrophotometry (UV-Vis-NIR)

        Measures absorbance, reflectance, and transmittance (175–3300 nm).

        Wavelength Dispersive X‑Ray Fluorescence (WDXRF)

        Non-destructive elemental composition & thin-film analysis.

        White Light Interferometry (WLI)

        Measures surface topography with sub-nanometer vertical resolution.

        X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS)

        Analyzes electronic structure of atoms and molecules.

        X-ray Diffraction (XRD)

        Non-destructive analysis of crystal phases, lattice, and strain.

        X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS)

        Measures surface elemental composition and chemical states.

      • Optical Analysis
        Optical analysis

        Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR)

        Rapid, non-destructive chemical identification.

        Cathodoluminescence (CL)

        Maps bandgap, defects, and strain with SEM correlation.

        Digital Optical Microscopy

        Rapid, high-resolution imaging of a sample.

        Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS)

        Quantifies particle size and uniformity in minutes.

        Fluorescence Microscopy

        Rapid, high-resolution imaging of a sample.

        Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR)

        Rapid, non-destructive molecular fingerprinting across materials.

        Infra-Red (IR) Thermography

        Visualizes surface temperatures to reveal defects & hotspots.

        Laser Scanning Confocal Microscopy (LSCM)

        Non-destructive 3D imaging of sample surfaces.

        Photo-induced Force Microscopy (PiFM)

        Nanoscale chemical characterization & topography at sub-5nm.

        Photoluminescence (PL) Spectroscopy

        Photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy measures the luminescence spectrum emitted in response to optical excitation at a specified wavelength. Using a confocal microscope geometry, PL measurements can be performed with high spatial resolution.

        Raman Spectroscopy

        Measures inelastic photon scattering for chemical identification.

        SNOM-Raman

        Maps nanoscale stress and chemistry with 100 nm resolution.

        Spectroscopic Ellipsometry (SE)

        Measures thin-film thickness & optical properties.

        Structured Light Profilometry

        Creates precise 3D models without contact or damage.

        Ultraviolet Visible Near Infrared Spectrophotometry (UV-Vis-NIR)

        Measures absorbance, reflectance, and transmittance (175–3300 nm).

      • Mechanical Testing
        Mechanical Testing

        Capillary Flow Porometry (CFP)

        Characterizes through-pores in wettable, permeable materials.

        Dye & Pry Testing

        Reveals PCB solder joint cracks & defects.

        Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA)

        Characterizes thermal and mechanical properties of soft materials.

        IPC Compliance Testing (IPC Compliance)

        Verifies IPC-A-610 quality to reduce defects.

        Mechanical Cross-Section Analysis (X-Section)

        Uncovers microstructures and defects causing performance issues.

        Nano-Scratch Test

        Measures lateral/frictional force between tip & sample.

        Nanoindentation

        Determines mechanical properties including hardness & modulus.

        Pendant Drop Surface Tension Measurement

        Provides accurate liquid property analysis for surface tension.

        Rheology

        Evaluates material behavior during processing, storage, and use.

        Tap Density

        Ratio of sample mass to volume after mechanical tapping.

        Tensile Testing

        Measures material behavior under axial stretching (tension).

        Thermomechanical Analysis (TMA)

        Measures material dimension changes with temp, time, or force.

      • Thermal Analysis
        Thermal Analysis

        Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC)

        Quantifies heat flow for material optimization.

        Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA)

        Characterizes thermal and mechanical properties of soft materials.

        Infra-Red (IR) Thermography

        Visualizes surface temperatures to reveal defects & hotspots.

        Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA)

        Measures material mass changes with temperature or time.

        Thermomechanical Analysis (TMA)

        Measures material dimension changes with temp, time, or force.

        Time-Domain Thermoreflectance (TDTR) Analysis

        Time-Domain Thermoreflectance (TDTR) is an optical pump–probe technique used to measure thermal conductivity, thermal boundary conductance, and heat transport properties in thin films deposited on solid substrates.

      • Morphology & Structural Analysis
        Morphology & Structural Analysis

        2D X-Ray Inspection

        Delivers clear internal views of complex electronics.

        Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) Analysis

        Maps nanoscale topography and material properties with a sharp probe.

        Chromatic Confocal Profilometry & 3D Surface Profiling

        Fast, non-contact 3D surface measurements.

        Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS)

        Quantifies particle size and uniformity in minutes.

        Ellipsometric Porosimetry

        Ellipsometric porosimetry measures adsorption- and desorption-induced changes in optical properties to determine film porosity and pore size distribution in porous samples.

        Gas Adsorption Porosimetry

        Characterizes porous materials.

        Gas Pycnometry

        Fast, precise measurements of true volume, density, and porosity.

        Laser Diffraction Particle Size Analysis (LD-PSA)

        Analyzes particle sizes by measuring light scattering.

        Photo-induced Force Microscopy (PiFM)

        Nanoscale chemical characterization & topography at sub-5nm.

        Scanning Acoustic Microscopy (SAM)

        Locates internal flaws like cracks, voids, and delamination.

        Structured Light Profilometry

        Creates precise 3D models without contact or damage.

        X-ray Computed Tomography (Micro-CT)

        Non-contact, non-destructive 2D/3D images at micron scale.

        X-ray Diffraction (XRD)

        Non-destructive analysis of crystal phases, lattice, and strain.

        X-ray Reflectometry (XRR)

        Optimized scans tailored to each sample for best measurements.

        Zeta Potential

        Electric potential at the slipping plane of the EDL.

      • More Techniques
        More Techniques

        4-Point Probe (4PP) Measurement

        Measures sheet resistance and resistivity accurately.

        Scanning Capacitance Microscopy (SCM)

        Maps charge carrier polarity/distribution in semiconductors.

        Surface Free Energy (SFE)

        Quantitative insight into surface energy for adhesion and coatings.

        Water Contact Angle

        Quantitative insight into surface interactions affecting adhesion.

      • Explore All Techniques
    • Resources
      Resources
      • Webinars
        Webinars

        Upgrading Metrology Services With Mountains™ 9: Improved Automation, Visualization, and Analysis

        The best dataset in the world would be useless without the right tools for data processing, statistical analysis, and…

        Watch Now
        Ep25 PorometryPorosimetry Pycnometry BannerV2 zoom scaled

        Porometry, Porosimetry, and Pycnometry: The 3 P’s You Need for Porous Materials Characterization

        Membranes and porous materials integrated in everything from personal protective equipment (PPE) to industrial concrete are often misunderstood. In…

        Watch Now
      • Blogs
        Blogs
        Happy World Metrology Day to the Unsung Heroes

        Happy World Metrology Day to the Unsung Heroes

        We're taking a moment to pause and be grateful for all our great Metrologists.  Happy World Metrology Day to you…
        Explore
        Gain Confidence in Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) Optimization & Analysis

        Gain Confidence in Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) Optimization & Analysis

        Introducing a new eBook from Covalent's EM experts that will help you gain insights into SEM operation to build confidence…
        Explore
      • News
        News

        Covalent and JEOL Announce Partnership, Silicon Valley Demonstration Facility

        The two leaders announced a partnership that includes a new JEOL demonstration facility located in Covalent’s Silicon Valley lab.…

        Explore

        Covalent Installs the Latest FIB/SEM Lamella Sample Preparation Instrument

        The Silicon Valley lab expands its electron microscopy capabilities with industry leading S/TEM lamella sample preparation on the newly…

        Explore
      • Library
        Library
        Key Principles of Lamella Sample Preparation for STEM

        Key Principles of Lamella Sample Preparation for STEM

        Video walkthroughs of key methods and considerations for preparing high-quality S/TEM lamella using a DualBeam FIB-SEM microscope.

        Explore
        (Scanning) Transmission Electron Microscopy (S/TEM) Using the Thermo Fisher Talos F200X

        (Scanning) Transmission Electron Microscopy (S/TEM) Using the Thermo Fisher Talos F200X

        Learn about the fundamentals of S/TEM analysis with the Talos F200X: imaging modes and signals, detector setup, and principles of…

        Explore
    • Company
      Company
      • About Us
        About Us
        About

        Covalent transforms complex material testing data into clear, actionable insights. From failure analysis to advanced compositional studies, we partner with innovators across industries to accelerate development and optimize performance.

        Learn more
      • Team
        Team

        We’re scientists, engineers, and problem-solvers first. Over 70% of us hold PhDs or advanced degrees. Every engagement is led by credentialed experts who combine deep technical knowledge with practical solutions tailored to your toughest challenges.

        Meet the team
      • Partners
        Partners

        Trusted by 1,500+ global manufacturers, OEMs, and R&D teams, Covalent builds long-term partnerships that deliver results at scale. Backed by $25M in tools and ISO-accredited methods, we focus on just one thing: data you can act on with confidence.

        Explore our partnerships
      • Careers
        Careers

        Join a team that's shaping the future of material insights. At Covalent, you'll work with world-class scientists, cutting-edge technology, and global industry leaders, all while making a measurable impact.

        View careers
      • Accreditations & Quality
        Accreditations & Quality

        Quality is foundational to our work. Covalent is ISO accredited and operates under a rigorous quality management system. Our processes, data, and results meet internationally recognized standards so you can trust every measurement and insight we deliver.

        Learn more
      • Covalent Core Lab
        Covalent Core Lab
        Technician operating advanced laboratory equipment at Covalent.
        A technician working with high-tech lab machinery in a clean, modern laboratory setting.

        The Covalent Core Lab provides advanced material characterization and analytical testing performed by Covalent scientists using state-of-the-art instrumentation to deliver fast, reliable results

        Learn more
      • Covalent Connect
        Covalent Connect
        Blockchain data network connecting labs, universities, and research institutions.
        Covalent's network links labs, universities, and research institutions for blockchain data sharing and collaboration.

        Covalent Connect provides access to specialized material characterization and testing services through a network of partner laboratories, guided by Covalent scientists for fast, reliable results.

        Learn more
    • Nexus Membership
    Contact Us
    Get a Quote
    Home/Webinars

    Webinar

    Explore expert-led webinars on failure analysis, interfaces, thin films, and more. Learn how leading R&D teams use advanced analytical techniques to solve real-world engineering problems.

    Read time

    60 mins

    Ep24 TEM Sample Prep_zoom scaled
    Jul 15, 2021

    Sample Preparation Orientation and Its Value for (Scanning) Transmission Electron Microscopy

    High-quality sample preparation for (scanning) transmission electron microscopy (S/TEM) can make the difference between impactful or mediocre analysis. An ideal lamella – the prepared cross-section of a sample – captures the right aspects of a feature of interest, balances signal intensity for structure and element analysis, and enhances the clarity of the end-image. Producing such…

    Read time

    59 mins

    Ep23-Nanoindentation_Anton-Paar-UNHT3-v2_zoom-scaled
    Jun 17, 2021

    Nanoindentation With the UNHT3 Indentation Tester: Nanomechanical Analysis With a Big Impact

    Nanoindentation probes a host of mechanical properties – including modulus, hardness, stress, strain-rate sensitivity, and more – while achieving improved flexibility and adaptability over conventional mechanical analysis techniques. In spite of its advantages, many engineers may still be unaware of the diverse applications nanoindentation supports. In this webinar recording, guest speaker Patrick O’Hara from Anton Paar…

    Read time

    60 mins

    Applications of Atomic Force Microscopy in the Biosciences
    May 21, 2021

    Applications of Atomic Force Microscopy in the Biosciences

    In this webinar, Covalent partnered with Asylum Research, part of Oxford Instruments, to bring you a special episode showcasing novel applications of Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) in biological research. Why use AFM in Biological Research? AFM is a fast, high-resolution technique for imaging. Its recent expansion in bio-applications can be attributed to its affordability, minimal…

    Read time

    60 mins

    Episode 22 Banner v3.0 zoom scaled
    May 6, 2021

    Optimizing Polymers and Adhesive Materials With Thermogravimetric Analysis and Differential Scanning Calorimetry

    Whether you’re designing parts for Formula 1 racecars, engineering biomedical implants for hospital patients, or anything in between, robust thermal analysis empowers engineers to fine-tune the thermal properties of advanced materials. The insights gained from thermal analysis can be paramount to designing high-quality parts, products, and devices. In this webinar, guest speaker Dr. Parth N.…

    Read time

    60 mins

    Ep21-Banner-v2_zoom-scaled
    Apr 22, 2021

    Solving Puzzles Using Metrology: Case Studies in Troubleshooting When (1+1)>2

    Engineers trying to optimize their processes and materials in the real world often find the undertaking is fraught with difficulties that can lead down time-leeching expensive dead ends in testing and analysis. Everyone understands that time to market is a key driver of success or failure of any project or product and, in many cases, it can make…

    Read time

    60 mins

    Ep20-Banners-v2_zoom-scaled
    Mar 25, 2021

    Energizing Research in Battery Performance With Advanced AFM

    Modern day battery technologies are constantly improving. In addition to broader efforts to increase life-span and energy density, batteries are also diversifying to support a broadening array of applications: photovoltaics and green energy installations, consumer electronics, electric vehicles, railway industries, manufacturing sectors, and more. In a recent market analysis report, Grand View Research projected that…

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    Covalent

    From specific techniques to complex problem-solving, our platform delivers expert-driven insights.

    Services by Solutions

    • Failure Analysis
    • Compositional Analysis
    • Metrology Consulting Services
    • Quality Control Testing
    • Metallurgical Analysis
    • Material Verification
    • Contamination Analysis
    • Performance Optimization

    Services by Applications

    • Optical Characterization
    • Surface Analysis & Interface
    • Mechanical Testing
    • Polymer & Plastic Analysis
    • Powder Analysis Testing
    • Chemical Compositional Analysis
    • Metals Testing & Failure Analysis
    • Coating Testing

    Resources

    • Webinars
    • Blogs
    • News
    • Library

    Company

    • About us
    • Team
    • Partners
    • Careers
    • Accreditations & Quality
    • Covalent Core Lab
    • Covalent Connect

    Electron Microscopy

    • Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
    • Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM)
    • Scanning TEM (STEM)
    • FIB-SEM
    • Atomic Resolution EM
    • Nanoprobing
    • Precession Electron Diffraction
    • Differential Phase Contrast

    Chemical Analysis

    • X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy
    • Auger Electron Spectroscopy
    • ToF-SIMS
    • Dynamic SIMS
    • FTIR
    • GC-MS
    • ICP-OES
    • ICP-MS

    Optical Analysis

    • Raman Spectroscopy
    • Spectroscopic Ellipsometry
    • Fluorescence Microscopy
    • UV-Vis-NIR Spectrophotometry
    • Laser Scanning Confocal Microscopy
    • Cathodoluminescence Imaging
    • SNOM Raman
    • Digital Optical Microscopy

    Mechanical Testing

    • Tensile Testing
    • Nanoindentation
    • Rheology
    • Dynamic Mechanical Analysis
    • IPC Compliance Testing
    • Capillary Flow Porometry
    • Nano Scratch Testing
    • Mechanical Cross-Section Analysis

    Thermal Analysis

    • Differential Scanning Calorimetry
    • Thermogravimetric Analysis
    • Thermomechanical Analysis
    • Infrared IR Thermography
    • Time-Domain Thermoreflectance

    Morphology & Structural Analysis

    • Atomic Force Microscopy
    • X-Ray Diffraction
    • Micro-X-Ray Computed Tomography
    • Scanning Acoustic Microscopy
    • 2D X-Ray Inspection
    • Laser Diffraction Particle Size
    • Dynamic Light Scattering
    • Gas Adsorption Porosimetry

    More Techniques

    • 4 Point Probe Measurement
    • Surface Free Energy Measurement
    • Water Contact Angle Measurement

    Contact Information

    • +1 408-580-0605
    • hello@covalent.com
    • 925 Thompson Pl
      Sunnyvale, CA, 94085
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