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Welcome to the Materials Characterization Lab

These little mushroom clouds were created from a Q-switched ultraviolet laser at the Applied Research Laboratory’s Laser Processing Division.

Our capabilities can increase the different degrees of understanding why different materials show different properties and behaviours.

MCL is a unique combination of a diverse range of techniques along with nearly 20 highly trained technical and support staff.

FESEM of the growth of gallium nitride at low-temperatures on CVD graphene that has been transferred onto float glass.

We are passionate about education and collaborative problem solving.

Capabilities and Characterization Techniques

nanoTOF II ToF-SIMS

ToF-SIMS extends beyond the world of hard materials

Xeuss 2.0 HR SAXS/WAXS

 Xeuss 2.0 HR SAXS/WAXS with Pilatus3 200K Detector and SWAXS Module

PANalytical X’Pert3 MRD

The new PANalytical X’Pert3 MRD advances in detector technology, enhanced Eularian cradle positioning accuracy and speed, plus improved optics, software and X-ray safety features.

More instruments

Our Story

We are passionate about education and collaborative problem solving. An interdisciplinary team of scientists and engineers, the Materials Characterization Laboratory (MCL) is a fully-staffed, open access, analytical research facility at Penn State's Materials Research Institute charged with enabling research and educating the next generation of highly qualified researchers. Our laboratories in the Millennium Science Complex are integrated with the Nanofabrication Laboratory to maximize impact and efficiency. Additionally, MCL is a partner in the National Nanotechnology Infrastructure Network (NNIN) and the Materials Research Facilities Network (MRFN). Supported by the National Science Foundation, these networks enhance our ability to support commercial, government, and academic researchers around the globe.

MCL Customer Quotes

It has been a great experience working with the professional and responsive team at MCL.  The opportunity for our scientists to work in the lab alongside MCL staff is a key benefit.  Saint-Gobain maintains its own facilities but the ability to access cutting edge instrumentation and materials expertise provides tremendous opportunity.  The flexibility in how one can engage the lab makes MCL a significant resource for companies of all sizes.

 Saint-Gobain Surface Conditioning Suberabrasives

The MCL is truly state of the art, not only with respect to the lab’s technology and experienced staff, but also with regard to the ability to accommodate industrial applications, budgets, and timelines.  The lab has provided resources that would otherwise be inaccessible, and has actively engaged in projects as a member of our team.

 A Medical Device Company

The most impressive aspect of working with MCL is the gateway opportunity it provides. We established a dialogue with experts in disciplines that are relevant to our needs and gave us a more in depth analysis. This review provided us additional considerations that we had not considered in some cases. The ability to talk thru issues and opportunities that MCL can support us with gives another degree dimensionality that proves invaluable.

 Bill Bezubic, Director of Engineering and Technical Services; MI Windows and Doors

MCL rapidly became essential team members on our project. With their expert involvement, we were able to quickly understand and control the complex material science issues critical to the program’s success. Working with MCL we were able to bring new technology to market faster and more reliably.

 Global Product Development Manager – International Materials Company.

Events & Activities

The Millennium Cafe

MCL Seminars and Workshops

October 3, 2017: Particle Characterization - Size, shape & so much more!

The physical properties of materials can influence a wide range of behaviors such as flowability, reaction and dissolution rates or the effectiveness of an abrasive material.

View: Details for this workshop

November 3 - Convergence of Transmission Electron Microscopy Methods for Materials and Life Sciences 

The Krios TEM

For researchers in both life sciences and materials sciences to discuss common transmission electron microscopy methods and new instrumentation that will advance both disciplines.

View: Details for this workshop

November 15-16, 2017 - Electron Probe MicroAnalysis (EPMA)

The course will take place over two days and include instruction from both EPMA manufacturers: CAMECA and JEOL. 

View: Details for this workshop