Terms and Conditions
1. Sample Requirements
Samples must be vacuum compatible.
If we are undertaking sample preparation on your behalf, some unavoidable damage to the sample may occur during the sample preparation procedures.
Insulating samples need to be coated with a film of carbon prior to analysing with the electron microprobe. This may obscure features of the samples and therefore any photographs or other recording of the samples should take place prior to submitting the samples.
Polished samples are required for quantitative analysis and X-ray mapping
2. Results
The results of the Analytical Work will be provided in the format as agreed. These may indicate that further analysis is required, which would be carried out at further cost.
3. Intellectual Property
Any intellectual property in existence prior to commencement of the Analytical Work and introduced to the Analytical Work by the University ("background IPR") shall remain the property of the University and shall be available solely for the purpose and duration of the Analytical Work. Any improvements, developments or discoveries made in relation to background IPR arising from its use during the Analytical Work shall belong to the University. For the avoidance of doubt background IPR shall include but not be limited to instrument methodologies and techniques. Background IPR will be maintained as confidential by the Client and will not be disclosed or used to the advantage (direct or indirect) of any company, firm, body, or person(s). The obligations imposed by this paragraph will remain binding after the expiry or termination of this agreement.
Save as aforesaid, intellectual property arising from the Analytical Work will be maintained as confidential and be assignable to the Client who may elect to seek formal protection by way of patent or design applications.
4. Confidentiality
Any information or data disclosed by the Client to enable the Analytical Work will be maintained as confidential. The results of the Analytical Work shall likewise be maintained as confidential.
The obligation of confidentiality does not apply to information which is already in the public domain or becomes public knowledge through no fault of either party.
5. Liability
Whilst the University will use all reasonable endeavours to ensure the accuracy of the Analytical Work performed and any information given, the University makes no warranty, express or implied, as to accuracy and will not be held responsible for any consequence arising out of any inaccuracies or omissions unless such inaccuracies or omissions are the result of negligence on the part of the University or its servants or agents.
The parties agree and declare that the obligation of the University and its employees shall cease upon delivery of the Report and that no liability whatsoever either direct or indirect shall rest upon them for the effects of any product or process that may be produced or adopted by the Client or any other party, notwithstanding that the formulation of such product or process may be based upon the findings of the Work.
Neither party shall be liable to the other for any death or injury unless it is caused by the negligence of that party or its representatives, nor shall it be liable to the other for any loss or damage whatsoever unless it is caused by its willful default or that of its representatives.