The access control industry has undergone a significant transformation over the years, evolving from traditional mechanical keys to advanced smart card systems. Among the most impactful innovations are NFC Card and RFID Card technologies, which have revolutionized how we manage security and convenience in various sectors, including hospitality and corporate environments.

NFC Cards (Near Field Communication) and RFID Cards (Radio Frequency Identification) are at the forefront of this change. These technologies enable contactless access, allowing users to simply tap their cards to gain entry. NFC Cards are particularly popular in modern access control systems due to their compatibility with smartphones and other devices, making them ideal for multifunctional use. On the other hand, RFID Cards are widely adopted for their long-range detection capabilities, making them perfect for high-traffic areas like office buildings and hotels.

In the hospitality industry, the RFID Hotel Card has become a game-changer. These cards not only provide seamless room access but can also be integrated with other hotel services, such as elevator controls, payment systems, and loyalty programs. This enhances the guest experience while streamlining operations for hotel management. The shift to RFID-based systems has significantly reduced the risks associated with lost or duplicated keys, offering a higher level of security and convenience.

When it comes to reliable and innovative solutions, SHENZHEN ZHIJIE RFID Hotel Card stands out as a trusted name in the industry. Their RFID Hotel Cards are designed with cutting-edge technology, ensuring durability, security, and compatibility with a wide range of access control systems. Beyond the product itself, SHENZHEN ZHIJIE excels in customer service, offering tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of each client. Their commitment to quality and support has made them a preferred partner for hotels and businesses worldwide.

As the access control industry continues to evolve, the adoption of NFC Card and RFID Card technologies is set to grow. Whether for corporate security or enhancing guest experiences in hotels, these smart solutions are paving the way for a more secure and efficient future. And with companies like SHENZHEN ZHIJIE leading the charge, the transition to smarter access control has never been easier.

In the modern era of security and logistics, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology has transitioned from a high-end luxury to a fundamental necessity. Whether you are managing a corporate office, a gated residential community, or a high-traffic hospitality venue, selecting the right credentials is the cornerstone of a functional access control system.

However, the market is saturated with various chips, frequencies, and materials. Choosing the wrong card can lead to hardware incompatibility, security vulnerabilities, or a poor user experience. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to select the ideal Blank RFID cards for your specific project needs.

1. Understanding the Frequency Landscape

The first and most critical step in choosing an RFID card is matching the frequency to your reader hardware. RFID generally operates across three primary frequency bands, each with distinct characteristics:

• Low Frequency (LF - 125 kHz):This is the traditional standard for basic proximity access. It offers a short read range and lacks sophisticated encryption. It is ideal for low-security environments where the primary goal is convenience rather than preventing high-tech cloning.

• High Frequency (HF - 13.56 MHz):This is the most common frequency for secure access control today. It includes technologies like MIFARE and DESFire. HF cards support data storage and encrypted communication, making them the industry standard for corporate offices and government buildings.

• Ultra-High Frequency (UHF - 860-960 MHz):UHF cards are designed for long-range identification, often reaching several meters. These are typically used for vehicle gate access or large-scale warehouse tracking rather than person-to-door access.

2. Security Requirements and Chip Selection

Once you’ve determined the frequency, you must choose the specific chip. Not all RFID chips are created equal.

If security is your top priority, you should look for chips that support Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) or mutual authentication. For example, the MIFARE DESFire series is widely regarded as one of the most secure options on the market. On the other hand, if you are running a temporary event or a simple gym membership system, a basic "read-only" chip might suffice to keep costs down.

3. Material Matters: Durability vs. Sustainability

While standard PVC is the "go-to" material for most cards due to its durability and ease of printing, the industry is shifting toward more specialized and sustainable materials.

PVC and Composite Cards

Standard PVC cards are excellent for long-term use. If your project involves high-frequency usage—such as employee ID badges that are swiped or scanned dozens of times a day—durability is non-negotiable. Composite cards (a mix of PVC and PET) are even more heat-resistant, making them ideal for cards that undergo high-temperature lamination or re-transfer printing.

Eco-Friendly Alternatives

For events, exhibitions, or short-term access, many organizations are now opting for RFID paper cards. These cards offer a significant reduction in plastic waste while maintaining the same scanning functionality as their plastic counterparts. They are lightweight, cost-effective, and can be fully customized with high-quality graphics, making them perfect for single-use or short-duration applications.

4. Specialized Applications: The Hospitality Sector

The hospitality industry has unique requirements when it comes to RFID. In hotels, the card is not just a key; it is a branding tool and a guest's primary touchpoint with the facility's technology.

When selecting Hotel key cards, managers must balance aesthetic appeal with technical reliability. These cards need to integrate seamlessly with Property Management Systems (PMS) and electronic door locks (such as VingCard, Salto, or Dormakaba).

In addition to standard PVC, many luxury hotels are now exploring wooden RFID cards or recycled plastic options to align with their sustainability goals. Regardless of the material, the chip inside must be compatible with the specific encryption protocols of the hotel’s locking system.

5. Customization and Visual Identification

Choosing a "blank" card doesn't mean it has to stay blank. Most RFID projects require some level of visual customization. When ordering your cards, consider the following:

• Surface Finish:Glossy finishes are standard, but matte finishes can provide a premium feel and are better at hiding fingerprints and scratches.

• Printing Compatibility:Ensure the blank cards are "ISO compliant" so they can pass through standard thermal transfer or re-transfer card printers (like Fargo, Zebra, or Evolis) without jamming.

• Security Features:To prevent counterfeiting, you can order cards with pre-printed holograms, UV ink patterns, or micro-text.

6. Technical Specifications Checklist

Before placing a bulk order, verify these technical details with your provider:

7. How to Test Before You Buy

Never commit to a large-scale project without testing samples. RFID chips can behave differently depending on the environment. Metal surfaces, for instance, can interfere with the signal of standard RFID cards. If your readers are mounted on metal frames, you may need cards with specific tuning or spacers.

Request a sample pack of blank RFID cards and test them against every reader in your facility. Check for:

1. Read Speed:Does the gate open instantly, or is there a lag?

2. Consistency:Does the card work at different angles?

3. Physical Integrity:Does the card bend or snap easily under pressure?

Selecting the right RFID card is a balance of technology, environment, and budget. By understanding the differences between frequencies, choosing materials that suit the lifespan of the project—whether that’s durable PVC or eco-friendly RFID paper cards—and ensuring chip compatibility, you can build a robust and reliable access control system.

For specialized industries like hospitality, the right hotel key cards can even enhance the guest experience, merging security with brand identity. Take the time to audit your hardware, define your security level, and always test your samples.

With the support of CIQTEK Scanning NV Microscopy (SNVM), researchers at Tsinghua University have directly visualized nanoscale spin cycloid structures in multiferroic BiFeO₃. This work, published in Advanced Functional Materials, provides the missing microscopic evidence linking crystal symmetry, magnetic structure, and anisotropic magnon transport, highlighting SNVM as a decisive tool for magnonics and low-power spintronic research.

The study used the CIQTEK Scanning NV Probe Microscope (SNVM)

Research Background: Magnon Transport in Multiferroic Oxides

Magnon-mediated spin currents can propagate in magnetically ordered insulators with nearly zero energy dissipation, making them highly attractive for next-generation low-power spintronic devices. In multiferroic materials such as BiFeO₃, the coupling between ferroelectric and antiferromagnetic orders enables electric field control of magnons, a long-standing goal in spintronics.

Despite this promise, the microscopic origin of weakly anisotropic magnon transport in rhombohedral phase BiFeO₃, commonly referred to as R-BFO, has remained unresolved. Addressing this challenge requires direct real-space characterization of nanoscale magnetic structures, which has long been inaccessible using conventional techniques.

Technical Bottleneck: Lack of Direct Magnetic Structure Evidence

Theoretical studies have predicted that R-BFO hosts a cycloidal spin structure that plays a critical role in suppressing strong anisotropy in magnon transport. However, experimental confirmation has been elusive.

Traditional characterization techniques, such as X-ray magnetic linear dichroism, provide spatially averaged magnetic information and are unable to resolve nanoscale spin textures. As a result, the logical connection between crystal symmetry, magnetic structure, and magnon transport remained incomplete due to the absence of direct microscopic magnetic imaging.

CIQTEK SNVM Approach: Direct Nanoscale Magnetic Imaging

CIQTEK Scanning NV Microscopy (SNVM) overcomes these limitations by combining nanometer-scale spatial resolution with electron spin level magnetic field sensitivity. This enables non-invasive, quantitative imaging of local magnetic fields generated by complex spin textures inside functional materials.

In this work, the research teams led by Prof. Yi Di from the State Key Laboratory of New Ceramic Materials and Prof. Nan Tianxiang from the School of Integrated Circuits at Tsinghua University employed CIQTEK SNVM magnetic imaging to directly probe the intrinsic magnetic structure of R-BFO.

Key Findings Enabled by SNVM Magnetic Imaging

Using CIQTEK SNVM, the researchers clearly observed a uniform cycloidal spin structure within R-BFO, with a characteristic periodicity of approximately 70 nanometers. The high spatial resolution of SNVM allowed precise quantification of the cycloid wavelength and confirmed that the magnetic structure exists in a single-domain state.

By correlating SNVM nanoscale magnetic imaging with piezoresponse force microscopy, the team further demonstrated that the propagation vector k of the spin cycloid is perpendicular to the ferroelectric polarization direction P. This result provides direct experimental validation that the Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction stabilizes the cycloidal spin structure in R-BFO.

These observations conclusively verify long-standing theoretical predictions and establish a complete experimental link between crystal symmetry, magnetic structure, and anisotropic magnon transport.

Magnetic structures of single-domain R-BFO and O-LBFO
a) X-ray magnetic linear dichroism (XMLD) spectra of the LSMO (22 nm)/R-BFO (10 nm) sample.
b) NV imaging of the LSMO (2 nm)/R-BFO (10 nm) sample. A 2 nm-thick LSMO layer was chosen to minimize interference from its stray magnetic fields.
d) XMLD spectra of the LSMO (22 nm)/O-LBFO (10 nm) sample.
e) X-ray magnetic linear dichroism–photoemission electron microscopy (XMLD-PEEM) imaging of the LSMO (22 nm)/O-BFO (10 nm) sample.

Scientific Impact and Application Value

Published in Advanced Functional Materials under the title Tuning Anisotropic Magnon Transport in Multiferroic Oxides by Crystal Symmetry, this study significantly advances the understanding of magnon transport mechanisms in multiferroic oxides.

More importantly, it demonstrates that Scanning NV Microscopy (SNVM) is not merely a supplementary technique, but a key enabling platform for modern condensed matter physics and functional materials research. Compared with traditional spectroscopic approaches, SNVM magnetic imaging uniquely provides direct, real-space access to complex magnetic textures at the nanoscale.

Looking forward, CIQTEK SNVM is expected to play an increasingly important role in multiferroic materials, antiferromagnetic devices, and magnon-based information processing, accelerating the development of energy-efficient spintronic technologies.

Experience CIQTEK SNVM for Nanoscale Magnetic Imaging

The CIQTEK Scanning NV Microscope (SNVM) is a state-of-the-art nanoscale magnetic field imaging system designed for advanced materials research. It supports temperatures from 1.8 to 300 K, vector magnetic fields up to 9 T out of plane and 1 T in plane, spatial resolution down to 10 nm, and magnetic sensitivity reaching 2 μT per square root Hertz.

CIQTEK Scanning NV Microscope (SNVM) has two versions: the ambient version and the cryogenic version

Real-Time EPR Results at the Bench

For many U.S. labs, collecting data quickly and efficiently is critical. A desktop EPR brings real-time EPR spin analysis into everyday workflows, allowing scientists to move from sample preparation to results faster. Researchers can monitor dynamic processes such as free radical reactions, material characterization, or biological spin studies with immediate feedback.

Unlike traditional floor-standing EPR systems, a benchtop EPR allows rapid setup and operation without requiring extensive training or dedicated lab space. This makes fast EPR measurement and high-throughput spin analysis accessible for more researchers.

 

Modern Benchtop EPR

 

Why Real-Time Spin Analysis Matters

Many experiments in chemistry, materials science, and biology involve species that change rapidly. Rapid EPR experiments can provide insights that would otherwise take hours or days. With a desktop EPR, researchers can:

• Acquire spectra quickly with minimal downtime

• Adjust experimental conditions based on real-time data

• Iterate experiments more efficiently

• Reduce sample waste and lab bottlenecks

By enabling real-time EPR measurement, desktop EPR systems support more agile decision-making and accelerate research cycles.

What Makes Desktop EPR Ideal for Modern Labs

Benchtop EPR spectrometers combine a compact design with high performance. Key advantages include:

- Compact EPR Form Factor

A desktop system fits on a standard lab bench, ideal for shared facilities or labs with limited space.

- Intuitive Operation

User-friendly software and controls allow researchers to perform spin analysis without specialized training, supporting multiple users in busy labs.

- Fast EPR Measurement

High-performance detection and streamlined workflows enable rapid spectral acquisition for both solid and liquid samples, making rapid EPR experiments practical.

- Reliable Performance

Modern desktop EPR systems maintain sensitivity and resolution comparable to larger instruments while providing the flexibility of a benchtop unit.

These features make desktop EPR a practical choice for labs that value efficiency and accuracy.

Real U.S. Lab Cases: Faster Workflows and Immediate Feedback in Practice

Real-time EPR is not just a theoretical advantage. In several U.S. research laboratories, desktop EPR systems are already being used to shorten experiment cycles and deliver immediate data feedback, especially in environments where access to large shared instruments is limited or inefficient.

At Cornell University, a CIQTEK benchtop EPR system was introduced to support both biomedical research and teaching. One of the key motivations was workflow efficiency. Instead of scheduling time on a centralized EPR facility, researchers could perform spin analysis directly at the lab bench, immediately after sample preparation. This allowed rapid checks of radical signals and faster decisions on whether experiments should proceed, repeat, or be adjusted. For students and researchers alike, real-time EPR access reduced waiting time and made data interpretation part of the same working session, rather than a separate step days later.

A similar efficiency-driven approach can be seen at Northwestern University, where a CIQTEK desktop EPR200M is used in materials and chemistry research. Researchers value the ability to run fast EPR measurements without interrupting ongoing experiments. Having a benchtop EPR nearby enables quick verification of paramagnetic species during synthesis or material processing, helping teams respond immediately to unexpected results and optimize conditions on the spot.

At the University of Texas at Dallas, the adoption of the CIQTEK desktop EPR system supports both research and instructional use. For teaching labs and student projects, real-time EPR measurements mean that experiments can be completed and discussed within a single lab session. For research users, the system provides rapid feedback during routine spin analysis, improving throughput and reducing dependency on shared, high-demand instrumentation.

Across these U.S. labs, the common theme is not simply access to EPR, but speed and control over the experimental timeline. Desktop EPR systems allow researchers to move from sample to spectrum quickly, integrate data analysis into daily workflows, and maintain momentum in fast-paced research environments.

A screenshot from a user feedback video of the CIQTEK desktop EPR200M from Cornell University

How Desktop EPR Boosts Laboratory Productivity

Integrating a benchtop EPR into lab workflows can transform research efficiency. Key benefits include:

• Shorter setup and measurement times

• Faster turnaround for real-time EPR experiments

• Ability to handle higher sample throughput

• Flexibility for both research and teaching applications

With desktop EPR, labs can achieve rapid EPR experiments and continuous data flow without waiting for traditional instruments.

Performance and Value in One System

A desktop EPR spectrometer delivers strong, high-performance EPR capabilities at a significantly lower cost than many legacy systems. The combination of compact design, quick measurement, and streamlined operation makes benchtop EPR an attractive option for laboratories that need reliable spin analysis without heavy infrastructure or long setup times.

Within this category, CIQTEK desktop EPR systems stand out for their exceptional price-to-performance balance. By focusing on the core measurement needs of modern research labs, CIQTEK offers benchtop EPR instruments that provide robust sensitivity, stable performance, and real-time data access at a price point that is difficult to match. This allows more research groups to adopt EPR spectroscopy as a routine tool rather than a limited shared resource.

For U.S. laboratories conducting spin analysis, CIQTEK benchtop EPR systems deliver immediate results from bench to insight, helping teams maximize research output while keeping capital investment under control. The result is a practical, efficient solution that aligns with both scientific goals and budget realities.

You Can Extend System Life Without Replacing the Magnet

If your aging EPR spectrometer is 10, 15, or even 20 years old, a full system replacement is often unnecessary.
In many U.S. laboratories, the magnet remains stable and reliable, while performance limitations come from outdated electronics, probes, and software.

By performing a practical EPR spectrometer upgrade, laboratories can restore performance, modernize workflows, and control costs. This approach has already been implemented in real projects and is proving to be both cost-effective and efficient.

 

Why the Magnet Is Usually Not the Limiting Factor

Magnets are designed for long-term operation and often remain stable for decades with proper care.

In most cases, the magnet provides:

• Stable magnetic field strength

• Acceptable field homogeneity

• Reliable day-to-day operation

The main limitations come from other parts of the system that age faster, such as electronics, control units, and software. This is why many laboratories choose to upgrade their EPR spectrometer without replacing the magnet, focusing on electronics and controls instead of full replacement.

Common Problems with Aging EPR Systems in U.S. Labs

These challenges are common in an aging EPR spectrometer that has been in use for many years.

- Reduced Signal Quality

A lower signal-to-noise ratio makes weak signals harder to detect and increases experiment time.

- Outdated Software and User Interfaces

Legacy software may not run smoothly on modern operating systems and lacks automation features that labs now expect.

- Increasing Maintenance Pressure

Replacement parts are harder to source, and service visits take longer and cost more.

- Limited Support for Modern Experiments

Advanced experiments often require improved timing control, better signal processing, and more flexible system configuration.

These issues typically point to outdated electronics and controls rather than the magnet itself.

What Can Be Upgraded in an EPR Spectrometer

A modern EPR system upgrade focuses on components that limit performance rather than replacing the entire instrument.

- Console and Control Electronics

Upgrading the console improves stability, acquisition speed, and compatibility with modern computers. This is often the most impactful step in the upgrade old EPR spectrometer workflow.

- Microwave Electronics and Detection Chain

Modern microwave electronics reduce noise and improve signal stability, resulting in clearer and more reliable spectra.

- Probes and Resonators

New probe designs can significantly improve sensitivity and ease of use, especially for routine measurements.

- Software and Automation

Updated software simplifies daily workflows, supports automated experiments, and makes the system easier to operate for students and shared facilities.

Upgrade Versus Buying a New System

For many laboratories, upgrading is a practical alternative to full system replacement.

With an EPR system upgrade, labs can:

• Keep a functioning magnet

• Reduce capital investment

• Shorten downtime

• Minimize disruption to ongoing research

When the magnet remains stable, an EPR upgrade without replacing the magnet often delivers most of the benefits of a new system at a fraction of the cost. This approach is a cost-effective EPR upgrade that many U.S. laboratories are now choosing.

A Real EPR Modernization Case from CIQTEK

A real example comes from Queen Mary University of London, where CIQTEK completed an official EPR spectrometer modernization service.

The laboratory was operating an aging EPR spectrometer that no longer met current research needs. While the magnet was stable, outdated control electronics and system modules limited performance and usability.

Instead of replacing the entire system, the laboratory chose CIQTEK EPR modernization and upgrade service. CIQTEK completed on-site installation, optimized the system, and provided user training.

After the upgrade:

• System stability improved

• Daily operation became more efficient

• The laboratory extended the usable life of its EPR system

• The high cost and disruption of full replacement were avoided

This demonstrates that upgrading a legacy EPR system is already being implemented successfully in active research environments.

CIQTEK completed the EPR spectrometer modernization service at Queen Mary University of London

Why CIQTEK EPR Upgrades Are Cost-Effective

Budget planning is a critical concern for U.S. laboratories. CIQTEK EPR upgrade service is designed to be cost-effective by focusing on performance-limiting components rather than replacing the entire instrument.

Each upgrade is evaluated based on the existing system's condition, ensuring that resources are used efficiently. This makes the service a truly cost-effective EPR upgrade for labs looking to extend the life of their instruments.

How Long Does an EPR Upgrade Take

Compared with full system replacement, EPR upgrades typically require much less downtime.

• Hardware preparation is done in advance

• On-site installation and system validation are efficient

• User training is included

This allows labs to resume experiments quickly and maintain research continuity.

Moving Forward

If your aging EPR spectrometer still has a reliable magnet but does not meet modern research needs, a cost-effective EPR upgrade is a practical solution.

CIQTEK EPR modernization and upgrade service helps laboratories extend system life, improve performance, and protect research budgets while minimizing disruption. For many U.S. EPR users, upgrading is not a compromise but a smart, strategic decision. 

Learn more about CIQTEK EPR modernization and upgrade service

CIQTEK EPR Upgrade Workflow

In the high-speed operation of 5G base stations and AI data centers, optical modules serve as information transmission hubs, and behind them lies an "invisible key component" - the quartz crystal oscillator (quartz crystal oscillator). A-Crystal Technology has been deeply engaged in this field, providing high-precision quartz crystal oscillator products to ensure the stable transmission of optical modules and exploring new opportunities in the wave of industry upgrading.

The "Precision Timekeeper" of Optical Modules  

The core role of the Quartz Crystal Oscillator is to provide a reference clock for chips such as  DSP and  FPGA inside optical modules, ensuring coordinated operation of all components.  

• 100G optical modules require a frequency error of  ±20ppm and jitter <1ps  .  

• 800G/1.6T modules have stricter requirements: 156.25MHz high-frequency differential Crystal Oscillator, phase jitter <70 femtoseconds, and wide-temperature stability from -40℃ to 85℃.  

• If the Crystal Oscillator fails, it can directly cause abnormal optical power and a sharp increase in the bit error rate. Therefore, all products from A-Crystal Technology undergo rigorous high/low-temperature and vibration tests to ensure reliability.  

Cost Proportion and Market Space  

In optical modules of different rates, the cost proportion of Crystal Oscillators increases with higher performance requirements:  

•   10G/25G modules: 1%–2% proportion, compatible with A-Crystal Technology’s 25MHz Active Crystal Oscillator  .  

•   100G/400G modules: 2%–4% proportion, requiring A-Crystal Technology’s 156.25MHz Differential Crystal Oscillator  .  

•   800G/1.6T modules: 4%–5% proportion, matching A-Crystal Technology’s specialized models with wide-temperature and ultra-low jitter.  

The cost proportion of crystal oscillators for optical modules of different rates

In terms of the market, the global optical module market is expected to reach $23.5 billion in 2025, with Differential Crystal Oscillators driven by AI server optical modules reaching $1.9–4.9 billion. The demand for 800G optical modules is projected to exceed 10 million units in 2025, and 1.6T modules are expected to surpass 10 million units by 2026.  

Technology Trends and Competitive Landscape

Technology Directions  

• High Frequency : To adapt to 1.6T modules, A-Crystal Technology is developing higher-frequency Crystal Oscillator products.  

• Miniaturization: Package sizes are shrinking from 7.0×5.0mm to 1.6×1.2mm (A-Crystal Technology’s  2520 package products are already in mass application).  

• Wide Temperature Range: Expanding from commercial-grade 0℃~70℃ to industrial-grade -40℃~85℃ to meet the needs of complex scenarios.  

Competitive Landscape  

• International: Japanese companies Kyocera and Epson dominate the high-end OCXO (Oven-Controlled Crystal Oscillator) market, while the U.S.-based   SiTime captures the mid-to-low-end market with MEMS Crystal Oscillators.  

• Domestic: Some domestic manufacturers have achieved mass production of ultra-high-frequency Crystal Oscillators above 300MHz. However, the localization rate of 25G and high-end optical module Crystal Oscillators is only 10%, leaving significant room for substitution.  

Challenges and Opportunities  

• Challenges: The contradiction between high-frequency and miniaturization, the balance between low jitter and low power consumption, and the demand for strong anti-interference. Through continuous efforts by its R&D team, A-Crystal Technology has broken through the bottlenecks.

• Opportunities: The explosion of AI computing power drives optical module upgrades, increased support for domestic substitution policies, and rising demand for independent control of key components. A-Crystal Technology is entering a development window.  

Conclusion  

Although Quartz Crystal Oscillators account for only 1%–5% of the cost in optical modules, they are a critical component with far-reaching impact. With the widespread adoption of 800G/1.6T optical modules, the market size is expected to reach $2–5 billion. A-Crystal Technology is narrowing the gap with international competitors through technological breakthroughs and will become a key supporter of the optical module industry’s upgrade.  

Contact Us

Want to know more about A-Crystal’s Technology products?

Need selection the model or technical consultation?

Feel free to contact us via the following methods!

Tel: 0086-576-89808609  

Email: market@acrystals.com

Website: [www.acrystals.com](http://www.acrystals.com)

Strengthening Ties with a Leading European University

CIQTEK is pleased to announce its official recognition as a donor to the Jean-Marie Lehn Foundation, part of the University of Strasbourg, France.

As one of Europe's leading research institutions, and ranked No. 1 in the European Union for Chemistry in the 2025 Shanghai Ranking, the University of Strasbourg plays a central role in advancing scientific research and innovation.

The Jean-Marie Lehn Foundation aims to foster collaboration between academia and industry, support scientific research, and nurture young talent. The Foundation promotes innovation, knowledge exchange, and partnerships that advance chemistry, materials science, and related fields.

CIQTEK logo is now featured on the Foundation's donor page, reflecting the company's commitment to supporting world-class academic development. Source: Jean-Marie Lehn Foundation website

Expanding Collaboration in EPR Research

This milestone also highlights CIQTEK's expanding collaboration with the University of Strasbourg in Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. CIQTEK will sponsor the ARPE EPR 10th Summer School, to be held in France from June 22–26, 2026.

During the event, researchers and students will gain hands-on experience with the CIQTEK EPR200M benchtop EPR spectrometer and explore CIQTEK’s advanced floor-stand EPR solutions through real-time remote demonstrations. More details coming soon!

Growing CIQTEK's Presence in France and Europe

Looking ahead, CIQTEK will further strengthen its presence in France and Europe, enhancing brand visibility, expanding collaborations with universities and laboratories, and delivering innovative EPR technologies that accelerate research in materials science, chemistry, and spin-related fields.

CIQTEK EPR Spectrometer Series

In today’s fast-paced world, keeping track of your health can be challenging, but the S200 Smartwatch makes it effortless. Designed with advanced Murata high-precision piezoelectric air pump technology, it delivers accurate and stable blood pressure readings with a sealed, waterproof airbag system—bringing medical-grade monitoring right to your wrist. Combined with the flagship TI AFE4950 sensor and nano superconducting ECG glass, the S200 captures precise ECG signals, heart rate, and blood oxygen levels in real-time, helping you stay on top of your health.

Beyond core metrics, the S200 features mini health checks, emotional and fatigue detection, and 24-hour sleep monitoring. It even supports women’s health, body composition analysis, non-invasive glucose tracking, breathing exercises, and body temperature monitoring. Multiple sport modes, including step counting, calorie tracking, and distance measurement, encourage an active lifestyle while providing clear progress data.

On the lifestyle side, the S200 integrates Alipay offline payment, NFC door access, Bluetooth calls, and SOS emergency alerts. Its smart voice assistant and weather forecast make everyday tasks easier, while the vivid AMOLED HD display ensures you never miss a detail. With S200, health management, fitness tracking, and daily convenience are seamlessly combined—empowering you to lead a smarter, more active life.

Nuclear fusion is considered a key future energy source due to its high efficiency and clean energy output. In fusion reactors, water cooling systems are widely used because they are technically mature, cost-effective, and have excellent cooling performance.

However, a major challenge remains: under high temperature and high pressure, water and steam strongly corrode structural materials. While this problem has been studied in fission reactors, fusion environments are more complex. The unique high-intensity, unevenly distributed magnetic fields in fusion devices interact with corrosion processes, creating new technical challenges that need detailed research.

To address this, Associate Professor Peng Lei's team from the University of Science and Technology of China conducted an in-depth study using the CIQTEK scanning electron microscope (SEM) and dual-beam electron microscope. They built high-temperature magnetic-field steam corrosion and high-temperature water corrosion setups. Using SEM, EBSD, and FIB techniques, they analyzed oxide films formed on CLF-1 steel after 0–300 hours of steam corrosion at 400°C under 0T, 0.28T, and 0.46T magnetic fields, and after 1000 hours of high-temperature water corrosion at 300°C.

The study used CIQTEK SEM5000X ultra-high-resolution field-emission SEM and the FIB-SEM DB500

The study found that the oxide films form a multilayer structure, with a chromium-rich inner layer and an iron-rich outer layer. Film formation occurs in five stages: initial oxide particles, then floc-like structures, formation of a dense layer, growth of spinel structures on the dense layer, and finally, spinel cracking into laminated oxides. The presence of a magnetic field significantly accelerates corrosion, promotes the transformation of outer magnetite (Fe₃O₄) into hematite (Fe₂O₃), and enhances laminated oxide formation. This work was published in Corrosion Science, a top-tier journal in the field of corrosion and materials degradation, under the title: "Magnetic field effects on the high-temperature steam corrosion behavior of reduced activation ferritic/martensitic steel."

Surface Oxide Film Characterization

In high-temperature steam (HTS), CLF-1 steel surfaces show different corrosion states over time. On polished surfaces, early-stage oxidation (60 h) appears as small, dispersed particles. The Fe/Cr ratio is similar to the substrate, indicating that the oxide layer is not yet complete. By 120 h, floc-like oxides appear. At 200 h, a dense oxide layer forms, with new oxide particles and local spinel structures on top.

Rough surfaces corrode faster. Early floc-like oxides are finer and more evenly distributed. By 200 h, they transform into spinel structures, showing a stronger difference from polished surfaces. In high-temperature, high-pressure water (HTPW), polished surfaces display similar spinel structures. Spinel in HTPW is denser and more numerous, while spinel in HTS is larger in size.

When a magnetic field is applied (0.28 T on polished, 0.46 T on rough), corrosion changes further. After 60 h, oxide particles appear on both surfaces, more on rough surfaces. By 120 h, polished surfaces have particle-like oxides, while rough surfaces develop fine floc-like films. At 200 h, rough surfaces show spinel cracking and layered structures perpendicular to the surface, with many pores forming. By 240 h, layers become denser and well-aligned. EDS analysis shows that under magnetic fields, Fe/Cr decreases and oxygen increases over time. Cr content drops at 120 h, earlier than in non-magnetic conditions, showing that magnetic fields accelerate the formation of the iron-rich outer layer.

Figure 1. SEM images and EDS point scans (#1–#20) of CLF-1 surfaces under HTS and HTPW.

Figure 2. SEM images and EDS point scans (#1–#16) of CLF-1 surfaces exposed to magnetic fields: polished (0.28 T), rough (0.46 T).

Oxide Film Phase Analysis

Figures 3 and 4 show Raman spectra of CLF-1 steel oxide films in HTS, HTPW, and under magnetic fields. Without a magnetic field, films in both HTS and HTPW are mainly spinel structures composed of Fe₃O₄ and FeCr₂O₄. The Raman peaks (302, 534, 663, 685 cm⁻¹) overlap, making differentiation difficult. Hematite (Fe₂O₃) appears only on rough HTS surfaces after 240 h.

Under a magnetic field, oxidation accelerates. Polished surfaces show small Fe₂O₃ peaks only at 240 h, while rough surfaces show Fe₂O₃ as early as 120 h, increasing by 240 h. Meanwhile, Fe₃O₄ and FeCr₂O₄ peaks weaken, indicating faster hematite formation.

Figure 3. Raman spectra of oxide films on CLF-1 under HTS and HTPW: (a) polished; (b) rough.

Figure 4. Raman spectra under magnetic field HTS: (a) polished (0.28 T); (b) rough (0.46 T).

Cross-Section Oxide Film Characterization

EBSD analysis of rough surfaces after 300 h HTS corrosion (Figure 5a, b) shows a three-layer oxide structure: a thin, discontinuous Fe₂O₃ outer layer, a dense Fe₃O₄ middle layer, and a black chromium-rich layer between Fe₃O₄ and the substrate. FIB-prepared cross-sections (Figure 5c, d) and TEM/SAED analysis confirm that the chromium-rich layer is FeCr₂O₄, and the iron-rich layer is Fe₃O₄. Gaps at the interfaces indicate phase separation and pore formation during oxidation evolution.

Figure 5. Microstructure and phase distribution of cross-section oxide films on rough CLF-1 surfaces after 300 h HTS: (a) EBSD contrast; (b) EBSD phase map; (c) FIB cross-section; (d) dark-field TEM and SAED.

Figure 6 shows cross-sections under a magnetic field (HTS, 240 h). EBSD shows outer oxides composed of Fe₃O₄ and Fe₂O₃. Fe₃O₄ layers are vertically aligned with many pores, and Fe₂O₃ fills surface gaps. The chromium-rich layer between the outer layer and substrate is porous. Compared with non-magnetic conditions, films are looser with more pores, especially at layer interfaces and within the Fe-rich layer. SAED confirms that oxide films still consist of FeCr₂O₄ and Fe₃O₄ from inner to outer layers. Magnetic fields mainly affect film density and pore evolution, not phase composition.

Figure 6. Cross-section microstructure and phase distribution of rough CLF-1 surfaces under magnetic field HTS: (a) EBSD contrast; (b) EBSD phase map; (c) FIB cross-section; (d) dark-field TEM and SAED.

This study examines the effect of magnetic fields on CLF-1 steel corrosion after 300 h in 400°C HTS. It also compares oxide films formed under HTPW and HTS conditions. The findings provide important reference data for optimizing the corrosion resistance of fusion structural materials.