Laboratory of Material Properties

Laboratory of Material Properties

In the laboratory, which is part of the Physical Properties Laboratory Group, it is possible to conduct research and physicochemical tests on material properties of raw materials and products. Its particular competence is to issue opinions on the basis of prepared characteristics.

It also conducts research aimed at introducing new material solutions in various branches of industry. Their scope includes:

  • tomography,
  • strength testing,
  • hardness and microhardness,
  • analysis of chemical composition,
  • microscopic examination (including SEM).

The technological background of the Wrocław Technology Park includes the highest class, highly specialized research infrastructure. It includes a unique in Poland UHV system for testing helium isotopes, which allows for detection of trace amounts of gases in mixtures.

The UHV system is used, among others, to test natural helium enriched in the He3 isotope. This is an extremely rare isotope – it represents less than one millionth of the natural helium, and the demand for it is increasing. The He3 isotope will be used to produce clean energy in the future. The “He3 + D” synthesis reaction allows to obtain the most energy (clean – no radioactive waste) in the thermonuclear fusion process.

This market also concerns potential distributors of the priceless He3 isotope sought after on the market. The world market is currently experiencing a severe shortage of supply of this isotope – its search has already started on the Moon.  85% of the current He-3 market is used in neutron detectors. Poland is in a privileged position here, having the only source of liquid helium in Europe located in Odolanów – PGNiG S.A. Branch in Odolanów.

The UHV system at our disposal is equipped with a quadrupole mass spectrometer QMS produced by Pfeiffer Vacuum GmbH model HiQuad 700, working in the range up to 128 AMU (Atomic Mass Unit) and detection level below 1 ppm. Its operation requires qualified personnel, therefore its place of use is strictly defined. Currently it is available at the Institute of Molecular Physics of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Odolanów. It can be used on behalf of companies and institutions cooperating with us, so we invite you to contact us!

Contact

  • PIOTR WILK
    HEAD OF LABORATORY

  • +48 71 798 58 76

  • piotr.wilk@technologpark.pl

See other laboratories from the Physical Properties Laboratory Group:

Laboratory of Optics, Photonics and Metrology

Laboratory of Cryogenics and Gas Technologies