Metallic components manufactured via the Powder Metallurgy route require more attention in terms of adjusting the process parameters in order to control the chemistry during production. Therefore the first step towards a robust production through the Powder Metallurgy route is the characterization of the chemical features of the metal powder both on the surface and in the bulk This review is an assortment of examples of characterization studies used for investigating different features observed in metallic powders. ©Carl Hanser Verlag, München.