Uses of Optical Microscopy

Basic identification of the metal or alloy used. The method is particularly suitable for ferrous alloys such as iron, phosphoric iron, steel and cast iron: Case study 5.

Provides evidence of heat treatments including quenching and tempering used to enhance the physical properties of an alloy.

Mechanical working, such as cold working, used to harden a metal or alloy, can be identified.

Composite construction, such as the steeling of the edges of cutting weapons, can be seen and described:

An assessment of the homogeneity of an alloy and its non-metallic inclusion content can be made

Metallic surface coatings can be examined and their means of attachment determined.

Armour-piercing arrowheads

An analytical project to determine whether hardened metal was used in the production of arrow heads.
Cast iron Tudor firearms

An analytical project to determine how a previously unknown firearm found on board the wreck of the Mary Rose was made.
Japanese sword technology

An analytical project to determine the methods of manufacture of Japanese sword blades.
The metallurgy of Japanese plate armour

An analytical project to determine the metallurgical quality and effectiveness of Japanese armour.

See also