Introduction
With the advent of modern scanning/transmission electron microscopy (S/TEM) capable of higher resolution, better contrast,and faster throughput, it is imperative to ensure the cleanliness of the TEM sample under the ultrahigh vacuum conditions of the microscopes [1–5]. It is well known that sample contamination can severely deteriorate the quality of electron microscopy analysis of materials, especially as the sample regions of interest decrease in size. The adverse effects of sample contamination include obscuring the area of the sample being analyzed by buildup of a carbonaceous layer, interfering with focusing and astigmatismcorrection, and generating unexpected microanalysis signals [2, 3].
Introduction
What is 3DSM? Scanning electron microscopes are great tools for 2D inspection and metrology of a wide variety of samples. However, their 3D capabilities are still very limited, especially when it comes to quantitative surface characterization. This is the main problem tackled by 3DSM. 3DSM is a PC-based application capable of providing topographical information for samples examined with Carl Zeiss electron microscopes equipped with an AsB® or 4QBSD detector. The application can perform a 3D surface reconstruction based on the individual AsB®/ 4QBSD segment signals, and visualize the resulting 3D model in several different ways. 3DSM can work together with SmartSEM® in the live mode, for real-time 3D imaging. It may also operate in the stand-alone mode for visualizing archived project files.
Introduction
Focused ion beam equipped scanning electron microscopes (FIB-SEM) are widely used in the field of materials science as well as quality control. Not only as a highly sophisticated tool for TEM-sample preparation but also as a versatile instrument for materials characterization. A proven benefit of FIB prepa- ration is location-specific cross-sectioning while maintaining a virtually deformation-free microstructure.
Introduction
When imaging in your SEM do you ever experience jagged lines on the edge of your image at high magnification?
There are a number of advantages with Brass constructed SEM holders that are coated with gold.
Have you ever de-magnified when imaging in your electron microscope and notice dark scanlines on your sample?
The Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) requires a source of electrons to form a beam and can utilize various emitters.
In this article, we will identify target material options for use in your specimen coater when analyzing a non-conductive sample.
Epoxies have a wide range of applications in microscopy sample preparation and vacuum chamber feedthroughs or leak repairs.
Standard SEM stubs and mounts are used as substrates to mount samples for Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM).
In an SEM sputter coater for coating non-conductive SEM samples, a plasma is created at a vacuum level of around 2x10-1 to 2x10-2 mbar by applying a high voltage between the grounded sample stage and the target.
Although modern manufacturing techniques have greatly improved the accuracy of SEMs, it is good practice to regularly check if the magnification shown on the SEM is still correct.