Advanced Polarized Light Microscopy: Unknown Particle Identification (2112), July 13–17, 2026 In-Person
COURSE SYLLABUS
Course schedule: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday – Thursday, and 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Friday.
This advanced-level microscopy course taught by McCrone Research Institute professors provides in-depth training in the application of the polarized light microscope (PLM) to the identification and characterization of particles across forensic, environmental, industrial, and research settings. Building upon foundational microscopy principles, the course emphasizes the systematic analysis of unknown substances using crystal morphology and optical crystallography, dispersion staining, refractive index determination, and advanced polarized light microscopy techniques.
Students will develop proficiency in the identification of a wide range of particulate and fibrous materials, including inorganic and organic chemical compounds, mineral fragments, glass particles, manufactured and natural fibers, polymers, coatings, soil, dust, and other microscopic debris.
The curriculum integrates theoretical principles with extensive hands-on laboratory exercises. Students will apply advanced optical methods—including orthoscopic and conoscopic examination, interference figure interpretation, Becke-line interpretation and analysis for determination of refractive index and the immersion method, and the use of polarized light and various compensator techniques to determine birefringence, optic sign, extinction characteristics, color/pleochroism, and other crystallographic properties.
Participants will gain experience in microchemical testing, particle isolation techniques, and comparative analysis using reference standards and preparation of samples for FTIR and SEM/EDS analysis, when necessary.
This course is designed for experienced forensic scientists, materials analysts, environmental microscopists, quality control professionals, and researchers seeking advanced competency in polarized light microscopy for various types of particle identification.
The prerequisite for this course is a minimum of 1-3 years of practical experience with the polarized light microscope and microanalysis in a laboratory setting.
The prerequisite for this course is a minimum of 1-3 years of practical experience with the polarized light microscope and microanalysis in a laboratory setting.