MEMS Shared Instrument Group has materials characterization systems available to researchers within Washington University. We also work with outside academic institutions and industry. In this section of the website, you will find details on each instrument available, its accessories and capabilities, and the types of samples and materials that it is best suited to characterize.

ElectroForce

ElectroForce 3200 Mechanical Testing System

The ElectroForce 3200 Fatigue testing system is ideal for low-force dynamic and unidirectional (compression or tension) testing. 

For more details on the ElectroForce, please visit the instrument’s page via the button below or link on the right-hand side of the screen.

The ElectroForce System is located in Jubel Hall, Room 231

Instron

Instron 68TM-30 Load Frame

The Instron 68TM-30 Load Frame is a traditional universal testing machine capable of testing materials in compression, tension, or bending. it is ideal for mid-range and high force testing.

For more details on the system please visit the instrument’s page via the button below or link on the right-hand side of the screen.

The Instron system is located in Jubel Hall, Room 231.

HR-20 Rheometer – New!

TA Instruments HR-20 Rheometer

The HR-20 is a rotational rheometer capable of measuring viscosity and viscoelastic properties of liquids, gels, and soft solids in shear.

The HR-20 has 3x  the torque sensitivity and 10x the displacement resolution of the AR-G2.

For more details on the HR-20 please visit the instrument’s page via the button below or link on the right-hand side of the screen.

The HR-20 Rheometer is located in Jubel Hall, Room 231.

MTS Bionix

MTS 858 Mini Bionix servo-hydraulic test system

The MTS Bionix test system allows for dynamic testing of solids under both axial and torsional loads.

For more details on the MTS system, please visit the instrument’s page via the button below or link on the right-hand side of the screen. 

The MTS Bionix System is located in Jubel Hall, Room 231. 

Zeiss Confocal 

Zeiss LSM 880 Confocal Microscope System

The Zeiss LSM 880 3-Channel Confocal Microscope System is used for live cell imaging and materials characterization.

For more details on the Confocal system, please visit the instrument’s page via the button below or link on the right-hand side of the screen. 

The Zeiss Confocal System is located in Jubel Hall, Room 027E.