4.1 Replication is a nondestructive sampling procedure that records and preserves the topography of a metallographically prepared surface as a negative relief on a plastic film (replica). The replica permits the examination and analysis of the metallographically prepared surface on the LM or SEM.
4.2 Enhancement procedures for improving replica contrast for microscopic examination are utilized and sometimes necessary (see 8.1).
1.1 This practice covers recognized methods for the preparation and evaluation of cellulose acetate or plastic film replicas which have been obtained from metallographically prepared surfaces. It is designed for the evaluation of replicas to ensure that all significant features of a metallographically prepared surface have been duplicated and preserved on the replica with sufficient detail to permit both LM and SEM examination with optimum resolution and sensitivity.