Q: What are the advantages and disadvantages of Chemical Analysis? A: Gross Chemistry: Easiest, fastest approach is the EDAX capability, usually purchased with SEM. Also available are visible light microscopes with simultaneous FTIR analysis. Advantages of Both Systems Fast, can do it while looking at the morphology of the sample and possible phases present. Relate composition to location and phases in the sample without polishing, e.g., Fracture surface analysis Disadvantages Must be considered semi-quantitative. Lowest element detected is usually sodium but not oxygen. Light element attachments gets down to boron. Precision drops with atomic weight. Lowest elements are qualitative - in the +/- 10 to 20% range, depending on matrix. Detection limits rise as atomic weight decreases. Comparison with standards helps increase the precision but requires more time. Can then go to expensive surface science labs to do wave length dispersive analysis, SIMS, ESCA, AES, etc. Sample preparation and turn around time can be problems. The FTIR attachment available on some of the optical microscopes is also a possibility.