Project Experience: Foreign Material Analysis

The purpose of the analysis was to determine the identification of unknown particulate in two different samples. Sample 1contained a translucent, rubbery like material. Sample 2 contained a metallic-like particle. Sample 1 was analyzed and showed the presence of translucent, rubbery material. Additional analytical analysis showed chemical similarities with ethylene/ethyl acetate using library search and match. Sample 2 was analyzed and showed the presence of a metallic fragment. Additional analysis showed elemental composition consistent with stainless steel fragment. In conclusion, Sample 1 showed chemical similarities to ethylene/ethyl acetate; Sample 2 showed material was consistent with stainless steel. The ability to use various microscopy instruments proved invaluable regarding unknown particulate identification.