Case Study: Helium Ion Microscopy Reveals Hydrogen Degradation in NBR Elastomer
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR) elastomers are used in Hydrogen delivery systems for Fuel Cell vehicles. The failure of NBR components in high pressure Hydrogen environments is a safety concern. In this case study, Helium Ion Microscopy (HeIM) reveals Hydrogen Induced phase separation of plasticizer in NBR elastomer samples.
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- Overview
- Scope, Applications, and Benefits
- Test Process
- Specifications
- Instrumentation
- Results and Deliverables
Overview
Helium Ion Microscopy (HIM) is a sophisticated technique for studying the morphology of surfaces with extremely high resolution. For NBR (Nitrile Butadiene Rubber) elastomers, for example, HIM is useful for studying the effects of hydrogen exposure, e.g., cracking, swelling, or degradation of the material’s structure.
This is an important study for understanding the effects of hydrogen on elastomers, especially for use as seals, gaskets, or hydrogen storage.
Scope, Applications, and Benefits
Scope
This study focuses on evaluating the effects of hydrogen exposure on NBR elastomers using Helium Ion Microscopy. The technique provides detailed images of surface and near-surface regions to detect degradation mechanisms.
It is particularly useful for identifying microcracks, void formation, and structural changes that are not easily visible using conventional microscopy methods.
The scope includes:
High-resolution imaging of NBR elastomer surfaces
Detection of hydrogen-induced degradation features
Analysis of microcracks, voids, and surface damage
Evaluation of material performance in hydrogen environments
Support for material development and failure analysis
Applications
Hydrogen storage and fuel systems
Oil and gas sealing applications
Automotive and aerospace components
Polymer and elastomer research
Failure analysis in harsh environments
Benefits
Provides nanoscale imaging resolution
Detects early-stage material degradation
Helps understand hydrogen-material interactions
Improves material selection and design
Supports development of hydrogen-resistant elastomers
Test Process
Sample Preparation
NBR elastomer samples are exposed to hydrogen under controlled pressure and temperature conditions.
1Surface Preparation
Samples are cleaned and prepared for microscopy without altering surface features.
2Helium Ion Imaging
The sample surface is scanned using a focused helium ion beam to generate high-resolution images.
3Image Analysis
Images are analyzed to identify degradation features such as cracks, voids, or morphological changes.
4Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Test Principle | High-resolution imaging using a focused helium ion beam. |
| Resolution | Sub-nanometer to nanometer scale imaging capability. |
| Analyzed Features | Surface morphology, microcracks, voids, and degradation patterns. |
| Exposure Conditions | Hydrogen gas under controlled pressure and temperature. |
| Testing Environment | High-vacuum microscopy conditions. |
| Analysis Output | High-resolution images and structural interpretation. |
Instrumentation Used for Testing
Helium Ion Microscope (HIM)
Hydrogen Exposure Chamber
Sample Preparation Tools
Vacuum System
Image Analysis Software
Results and Deliverables
High-resolution surface images of NBR elastomer
Identification of hydrogen-induced degradation features
Microstructural analysis report
Evaluation of material performance in hydrogen environments
Detailed microscopy analysis report
Why Choose Infinita Lab for Helium Ion Microscopy?
With Infinita Lab (www.infinitalab.com), you are guaranteed a Nationwide Network of Accredited Laboratories spread across the USA, the best Consultants from around the world, Convenient Sample Pick-Up and Delivery, and Fast Turnaround Time.
Our team understands the stakes and subtleties of every test. Whether you’re validating a new Product, de-risking a prototype, or navigating complex compliance requirements, our specialists guide the process with rigor and clarity.
Looking for a trusted partner to achieve your research goals? Schedule a meeting with us, send us a request, or call us at (888) 878-3090 to learn more about our services and how we can support you. Request a Quote
Frequently Asked Questions
Helium Ion Microscopy is an advanced imaging technique that uses a focused helium ion beam to produce extremely high-resolution images of material surfaces, allowing detailed analysis of nanoscale features.
HIM provides superior surface resolution compared to traditional microscopy, making it ideal for detecting fine cracks, voids, and degradation features caused by hydrogen exposure in elastomer materials.
Hydrogen can cause swelling, embrittlement, microcracking, and structural degradation, reducing the mechanical performance and service life of the elastomer.
HIM can detect microcracks, surface roughness changes, voids, and nanoscale defects that indicate early-stage degradation.
HIM offers higher surface sensitivity, better resolution, and improved depth of field, making it more effective for nanoscale surface analysis.
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