One vital method that can be applied to refractory sections is that of microanalysis
in which small areas can be analyzed chemically after excitations with the
incident electron beam. Microanalysis is normally used on polished sections while
being examined by scanning electron microscopy. Analysis can be used to determine
or confirm the composition of specific grains, particles, crystals, or bonds. By
integrating the composition of grains or areas with spatial locations, reactions, diffusion
profiles, and attack mechanisms can be evaluated particularly at interfaces.