Determining the origin of the breakage

Determining the origin of breakage is an expert analysis that aims to identify the precise cause of a rupture or failure occurring in a material or finished product, whether it be plastic, metal, glass, or composite. By reconstructing the failure scenario, it makes it possible to understand whether the breakage stems from a material defect, a design flaw, a manufacturing process malfunction, or abnormal stress during use.

Why determine the origin of a breakage?
A product failure can have serious consequences: non-conformity, recall, loss of customer confidence, and even safety concerns. Objectively identifying the origin of a failure addresses several concrete needs. In the context of a dispute, the analysis provides neutral technical evidence to establish responsibilities between the supplier, manufacturer, and customer. In quality control, it helps to permanently correct a recurring defect and improve the reliability of a process. In product safety, it prevents the recurrence of a failure that could endanger the user. In all cases, understanding the true cause of a breakage, rather than simply observing it, is what allows for effective action and prevents its recurrence.

How is the analysis performed?
Failure analysis combines several complementary approaches, chosen according to the material and the type of fracture. Visual observation and optical microscopy first characterize the fracture surface (initiation zone, propagation, final fracture). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) then allows for observation at very high magnification and, coupled with EDX, the identification of any foreign bodies or inclusions that may have initiated the fracture. Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis is used to verify the nature and conformity of the material, while mechanical tests evaluate its residual properties. For further information, see our blog articles on laboratory SEM analysis andfracture strength analysis.

What materials and what defects?
This analysis applies to a wide range of materials: plastics and polymers, metals and alloys, glass, ceramics, composites, as well as finished products and components (injection-molded parts, bottles, packaging, assemblies). It covers various failure modes: brittle or ductile fracture, stress cracking, fatigue, aging, corrosion, or manufacturing defects.

Related Analyses Depending on the context, determining the cause of breakage is complemented by other services from our catalog: understanding the origin of polymer failure , characterizing a surface defect , mechanical characterization , or fracture resistance analysis . When it is necessary to identify the exact composition of a material involved, deformulation can also be used. This service primarily concerns the packaging and polymers and materials sectors .

Why choose YesWeLab?
At YesWeLab, we collaborate with a rigorously selected network of laboratories, most of which are certified and/or accredited (ISO 17025, COFRAC). These laboratories are chosen based on your specific needs, the matrices to be analyzed, and the required analytical techniques or methods. If you have any particular requirements, please do not hesitate to specify them in your request: our scientific team will do everything possible to respond accurately and promptly. Since 2020, numerous manufacturers, distributors, and engineering firms have entrusted us with the management of their analyses, sending us their samples through our digital platform. To learn more or submit a specific request, contact our team today.