About us

Non-destructive testing covers primarily material independent methods to characterise real parts and structures, materials and processes. At Dübendorf the main focal points are the sections Road Engineering/Sealing Components, Polymers/Composites, Structural Engineering, Strength and Technology, Surface and Joining Technology, Corrosion/Surface Protection and Electronics/Metrology and in Thun the section Materials Technology.

The «virtual» centre for non-destructive testing provides a platform for co-ordinating all these activities. This

gives potential external clients ready access to this comprehensive field.

Services provided

• Research and development (primarily as part of application-oriented projects)
• Accredited services such as characterisations of materials and objects
• Transfer of knowledge and technology (lectures, seminars, publications)
• Consultation, arranging national and international contacts
• Functions in standardisation and specialised societies

Technical Orientation

• Classical non-destructive testing (NDT), measurement of layer and wall thickness
• Digital radiography, computed tomography, rapid prototyping and reverse engineering
• Mechanised ultrasonic imaging
• Acoustic emission analysis for object, testing and process monitoring
• Vibration analysis to determine the dynamic characteristics of structures
• Ground penetrating radar
• Speckle-Interferometry, shearography, holography
• Active and passive infrared thermography

Sector specific orientation

• Mechanical engineering and tool construction
• Electronics, sensor and micro technology
• Transport, energy and environmental technology
• Biocompatible materials, medical technology
• Building and plant construction
• Air and space technology

Further Contact:
Dr. Thomas Luethi, e-mail: thomas.luethi@empa.ch phone 41 1 823 43 22