Rich Brown, Executive Director and “Particle Detective”

MVA Scientific Consultants

 Using a combination of microscopical techniques, Rich applies polarized light microscopy (PLM), Fourier transform infrared microspectroscopy, (FTIR), confocal Raman microscopy, (CRM), scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive x-ray spectrometry (SEM-EDS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to solve problems in research and industry.  Typically the use of a microscope is the only way to approach problems that involve fine particles that have found their way into or onto a product resulting in some form of contamination.  Rich will demonstrate, through the use of case examples, how many particle based problems can be solved using a common sense approach and a strong background in light and electron microscopy.

Rich has a Masters degree in Forensic Chemistry from Northeastern University and has studied and worked with microscopes for the past 30 years to characterize fumes, dusts, white powders and contamination.  Rich has presented papers at the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, InterMicro and many other societies on the proper use of the microscope for chemical analysis.  Rich is an expert photomicrographer and videomicrographer specializing in hot stage microscopy, ion mill cross-section polishing and small particle handling.