The characterisation core facilities at Mines Saint-Étienne bring together measurement and characterization resources available for research, research-based training, and collaborative projects. They enable the observation of matter, the quantification of properties, the qualification of processes, and the production of reliable data, which are essential for model validation and scientific decision-making.
This page provides an overview by major instrumental groups. Each platform has a dedicated page detailing its uses, methods, access procedures, and associated contacts.
Role of characterisation core facilities
A characterisation core facility meets a central requirement in research: rigorous measurement. Depending on the project, these instruments notably allow for:
- the identification of structures, phases, or signatures;
- the physico-chemical and microstructural characterization;
- the analysis of properties and their evolution (temperature, aging, transformations);
- the traceability and reproducibility of results, essential in both science and technology transfer.
Explore our core facilities
Physico-chemical Characterization of Powders (PC2)
Analyze the composition, morphology, and physico-chemical properties of powders used in industrial and research processes (development, transformation, formulation).
Multiphysics Characterization of Microstructures and Surface Properties (CMS)
Observe, describe, and quantify microstructures to link structure, process, and properties (materials, interfaces, transformations).
Study of solids by thermal micro-analysis (ESMAT)
Study solids at the relevant scale via thermal and micro-thermal approaches, to better understand transformations, behaviors, and thermal properties.
Secure Characterisation Core Facility
An environment dedicated to studying the robustness of electronic components against attacks, including contactless tests (NFC technologies, etc.), an advanced laser for fault injection attacks, as well as electrical and electromagnetic glitch test benches.
Spectrometry and chemical analysis (SAC)
Perform chemical and spectrometric analyses to identify signatures, characterize compositions, and support control, research, or expertise initiatives.