Validity of using high-energy fluxes for the metallographic revelation of the structure

Abstract

The possibility of applying high-energy effects for metallographic etching is considered. It is shown that the methods of affecting the metal surface carrying the thermal component can alter the sample structure or reveal effects which can complicate the perception and analysis of the structure. It is noted that the application of nonthermal effect methods such as a magnetic field, cold plasma, and glow-discharge plasma can substantially alter the material structure and properties. It is shown that scanning electron microscopy cannot be considered an adequate analysis tool when studying the microstructure of metallographic cross sections. Thus, the effects of physical fields cannot be used as the means of metallographic sample preparation by virtue of its not always expected influence on the structure and properties of metals and alloys.