Element’s Positive Material Identification (PMI) testing is a fast, reliable, and non-destructive solution for verifying the chemical composition of metals and alloys. With services available both in our state-of-the-art labs and on-site, we ensure your materials meet strict industry standards, enhancing performance and ensuring compliance without delays or damage.

 

What is Positive Material Identification (PMI) Testing?

Positive Material Identification (PMI) is a non-destructive and portable testing method used to confirm the types and percentages of elements in a material. Often performed with an “XRF gun” (X-ray Fluorescence device), PMI is a cost-effective option for verifying alloy composition, identifying general material types, and evaluating materials in large batches. 

This service can be conducted on finished components, or items that cannot be destroyed or shipped to a lab. While PMI does not detect carbon, it is particularly useful at various stages of the manufacturing process and for re-certifying materials after production.

 

Benefits of PMI Testing with Element

  • Global Reach & Local Support: Element can perform PMI testing in labs across the US and Europe. Our experts can assist in identifying mixed batches of material, issue alloy verification certifications, and analyze expensive or unique components without causing damage. 
  • Certified Alloy Verification: At Element, we can detect a wide range of metals and alloys, and routinely assist with large or on-site projects to ensure your materials meet the required specifications and stand up to the demands of the environment.
  • Fast, Non-Destructive Testing: Element’s PMI testing delivers rapid and accurate results without damaging your materials, saving you time and reducing costs associated with delays.
  • Expertise You Can Trust: Our PMI services are conducted by employees with decades of experience in materials testing, ensuring that your materials are evaluated by industry-leading specialists who understand your specific needs.

 

On-site PMI testing with portable XRF-analyzer

Shipping large, heavy, or sensitive materials to a laboratory can be time-consuming and costly. As part of On-site Metallographic Analysis, Element offers portable PMI testing using advanced XRF analyzers for medium and high-alloy metals such as stainless steels, nickel, aluminum, titanium, and copper alloys.

 This service provides rapid results when fast project timelines or logistical constraints make lab testing impractical. Our team of PMI experts travels directly to your site, offering precise and non-destructive material verification that ensures your project stays on track without costly delays or interruptions to your operations.

Our PMI Services & Capabilities

  • PMI Testing Services: We offer Positive Material Identification (PMI) testing both in our advanced labs and on-site across the US and Europe. Using XRF (X-ray fluorescence) and OES (optical emission spectroscopy) technologies, we deliver precise chemical analysis of metals and alloys, including medium and high-alloy metals such as stainless steel, nickel, aluminum, titanium and copper alloys. Our lab and portable on-site testing solutions ensure flexibility and efficiency, tailored to meet your project’s unique needs.
  • Banned Elements Detection: Identifies restricted elements like lead and cadmium in plastics, ensuring compliance with ASTM E1476 standards.
    Mixed Batch Analysis: We identify mixed material batches, ensuring consistency and eliminating risks associated with material mix-ups.
  • Certified Alloy Verification: Official certification for alloy composition, providing traceability and compliance for safety-critical applications.
  • Testing of Critical Components: Analysis of high-value or complex components to ensure they meet necessary industry standards.

 

Why Choose Element?

With years of experience in materials testing, our team comprises industry-leading specialists who understand the intricacies of PMI testing. We are ISO 17025 accredited and committed to delivering accurate and reliable results tailored to your specific needs.

Element utilizes state-of-the-art portable XRF analyzers and advanced laboratory equipment to ensure the highest level of accuracy and efficiency in all our tests. With laboratories across the US and Europe, as well as on-site services, we provide the flexibility and accessibility you need. No matter where your project is located, our experts are ready to assist you. We can handle large batches, mixed materials, and unique components, ensuring compliance with industry standards across various sectors.

For more information about our positive material identification services, or to request a quote, contact us today. 

 

Replication Metallography: A Non-Destructive Solution 

Element discusses replication metallography as a non-destruction solution to metallurgical evaluation.

Read MORE

Chemical exposure testing applications

Your products must be able to withstand harsh conditions involved in your components’ end-use. Learn about how chemical exposure effects different materials in our case study.

READ CASE STUDY
Common alloys tested
  • Stainless steels (304, 316, etc.)
  • Inconel (625, 718, etc.)
  • Super Duplex SS
Elements commonly verified
  • Titanium
  • Chromium
  • Zinc
  • Cobalt
  • Copper
  • Iron
  • Magnesium
  • Molybdenum
  • Nickel
 

Our team of over 9,000 Engaged Experts in North America, Europe, The Middle East, Australia, Asia and Africa are ready to help you.