40 years of scientific instrumentation, one independent, multi-brand approach. Discover our story in La Gazette du Laboratoire.

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Electron microscopy, optical profilometry, X-ray microtomography… In the November 2026 issue of La Gazette du Laboratoire, Sales Director Thierry Grenut looks back on the history of our Scientific Instrumentation business and explains the model that sets us apart: that of an independent, multi-brand distributor.

It all began in 1983, when Elexience (Milexia’s name at the time) signed a representation agreement with Hitachi. This marked the birth of the Scientific Instrumentation department, with electron microscopy at its core. Since then, our portfolio has grown steadily to cover imaging, elemental analysis and materials characterisation:

  • Electron microscopy (SEM, TEM, Hitachi TM4000 Plus III tabletop SEM, semiconductor inspection)
  • 3D optical profilometry with Sensofar and the new Sneox 6
  • Non-destructive acoustic microscopy with Hitachi Power Solutions
  • Benchtop X-ray microtomography with NeoScan
  • Surface analysis with PHI and, most recently, X-ray wafer inspection with Techno Horizon

Our independence lets us pick the most complementary technologies based on quality, performance and reliability. That way, we build a complete solution with each laboratory, without being restricted to a single manufacturer’s range.

And our role doesn’t end at the sale. Our teams support each instrument throughout its entire lifecycle: consulting, installation, acceptance testing, training, and preventive and corrective maintenance. They rely on regional bases in Grenoble, Marseille, Lyon and Toulouse. Our newly expanded showroom also lets you test equipment with your own samples, and our user workshops, such as the one held at the University of Bordeaux in October, give peers a chance to share their experience.

Want to find out more? [Download the full article PDF ]

Meet us at Matériaux 2026 in Grenoble (16–20 November, booth 19) and at the GN MEBA days in Paris, Jussieu campus (30 November – 1 December).