Micrographic examination by means of optical or scanning electron microscope allows to get information about the metallographic structure, the grain-boundary configuration and the distribution of the phases or to detect the presence of a defect in a specimen.

According to the different materials, the standards provide several methods for the chemical or electrocheical etching of specimens. These shall be grinded, polished and mounted by means of resin before they are placed on the microscope stage. Photomicrographs of the magnified metal surfaces are taken and then examined by metallographic technicians.