Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science Materials Micro-Characterization Laboratory (MMCL)

The MMCL supports research and innovation at the University of Pittsburgh and beyond by providing access to state-of-the-art experimental tools, effective techniques, and expertise of its personnel for complete materials micro-characterization.

Materials Micro-Characterization Laboratory

MMCL research encompasses visualization of the surface and internal structure of materials and associated changes across microscopic to near-atomic length scales. Characterizations can also include locally resolved measurements of materials composition, structure, micro- to nano-mechanical properties, and specialized specimen preparation needs. MMCL is a fee based-laboratory. Please take a moment to review the fee schedule and details related to billing procedures.

Request FOM access

New users must go to FOM (Facility Online Manager) and complete the "I am a New User" form, please do not include any spaces in your username.

If you would like to learn more about the use and functions of FOM, please review the User Manual provided.

The MMCL capabilities can be accessed by use-request via the web-based system FOM at https://fom.nano.pitt.edu/fom/welcome.

Characterization Facilities

Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) FEI Tecnai G2 F20 Hysitron TI900 Triboindenter JEOL JSM 6610-LV Optical Microscopy Lab SEM FEI Apreo XRD PANalytical Empyrean

Sample Preparation Facilities

Fischione Model 1040 NanoMill Fischione Model 1050 TEM Mill Fischione Model 1060 SEM Mill Fischione Model 1070 NanoClean Plasma-Cleaner Fischione Model 110 Twin-Jet Electropolisher Fischione Model 170 Ultrasonic Disk Cutter Fischione Model 200 Dimple Grinder MultiPrep 8 Automated Precision Sample Preparation System Other Sample Preparation Facilities Sputter Coater - Carbon Sputter Coater - Palladium TechCut 4 Low Speed Saw