Imaging of Norway spruce early somatic embryos with the ESEM, Cryo-SEM and laser scanning microscope.

PubMed

Neděla, Vilém; Hřib, Jiří; Havel, Ladislav; Hudec, Jiří; Runštuk, Jiří

2016-05-01

This article describes the surface structure of Norway spruce early somatic embryos (ESEs) as a typical culture with asynchronous development. The microstructure of extracellular matrix covering ESEs were observed using the environmental scanning electron microscope as a primary tool and using the scanning electron microscope with cryo attachment and laser electron microscope as a complementary tool allowing our results to be proven independently. The fresh samples were observed in conditions of the air environment of the environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM) with the pressure from 550Pa to 690Pa and the low temperature of the sample from -18°C to -22°C. The samples were studied using two different types of detector to allow studying either the thin surface structure or material composition. The scanning electron microscope with cryo attachment was used for imaging frozen extracellular matrix microstructure with higher resolution. The combination of both electron microscopy methods was suitable for observation of "native" plant samples, allowing correct evaluation of our results, free of error and artifacts. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Spherical aberration correction in a scanning transmission electron microscope using a sculpted thin film.

PubMed

Shiloh, Roy; Remez, Roei; Lu, Peng-Han; Jin, Lei; Lereah, Yossi; Tavabi, Amir H; Dunin-Borkowski, Rafal E; Arie, Ady

2018-06-01

Nearly eighty years ago, Scherzer showed that rotationally symmetric, charge-free, static electron lenses are limited by an unavoidable, positive spherical aberration. Following a long struggle, a major breakthrough in the spatial resolution of electron microscopes was reached two decades ago by abandoning the first of these conditions, with the successful development of multipole aberration correctors. Here, we use a refractive silicon nitride thin film to tackle the second of Scherzer's constraints and demonstrate an alternative method for correcting spherical aberration in a scanning transmission electron microscope. We reveal features in Si and Cu samples that cannot be resolved in an uncorrected microscope. Our thin film corrector can be implemented as an immediate low cost upgrade to existing electron microscopes without re-engineering of the electron column or complicated operation protocols and can be extended to the correction of additional aberrations. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Scanning electron microscopy of hepatic ultrastructure: secondary, backscattered, and transmitted electron imaging.

PubMed

Miyai, K; Abraham, J L; Linthicum, D S; Wagner, R M

1976-10-01

Several methods of tissue preparation and different modes of operation of the scanning electron microscope were used to study the ultrastructure of rat liver. Rat livers were perfusion fixed with buffered 2 per cent paraformaldehyde or a mixture of 1.5 per cent paraformaldehyde and 1 per cent glutaraldehyde and processed as follows. Tissue blocks were postfixed in buffered 2 per cent osmium tetroxide followed sequentially by the ligand-mediated osmium binding technique, dehydration and cryofracture in ethanol, and critical point drying. They were then examined without metal coating in the scanning electron microscope operating in the secondary electron and backscattered electron modes. Fifty-micrometer sections were cut with a tissue sectioner, stained with lead citrate, postfixed with osmium, dehydrated, critical point dried, and examined in the secondary electron and back-scattered electron modes. Frozen sections (0.25 to 0.75 mum. thick) were cut by the method of Tokuyasu (Toluyasu KT: J Cell Biol 57:551, 1973) and their scanning transmission electron microscope images were examined either with a scanning transmission electron microscope detector or with a conversion stub using the secondary electron detector. Secondary electron images of the liver prepared by ligand-mediated osmium binding and subsequent cryofracture revealed such intracellular structures as cisternae of the endoplasmic reticulum, lysosomes, mitochondria, lipid droplets, nucleolus and nuclear chromatin, as well as the usual surface morphology, Lipocytes in the perisinusoidal space were readily identified. Backscattered electron images. Unembedded frozen sections had little drying artifact and were virtually free of freezing damage. The scanning transmission electron microscope image revealed those organelles visualized by the secondary electron mode in the ligand-mediated osmium binding-treated tissue.

Using the scanning electron microscope on the production line to assure quality semiconductors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Adolphsen, J. W.; Anstead, R. J.

1972-01-01

The use of the scanning electron microscope to detect metallization defects introduced during batch processing of semiconductor devices is discussed. A method of determining metallization integrity was developed which culminates in a procurement specification using the scanning microscope on the production line as a quality control tool. Batch process control of the metallization operation is monitored early in the manufacturing cycle.

Simultaneous specimen and stage cleaning device for analytical electron microscope

DOEpatents

Zaluzec, Nestor J.

1996-01-01

An improved method and apparatus are provided for cleaning both a specimen stage, a specimen and an interior of an analytical electron microscope (AEM). The apparatus for cleaning a specimen stage and specimen comprising a plasma chamber for containing a gas plasma and an air lock coupled to the plasma chamber for permitting passage of the specimen stage and specimen into the plasma chamber and maintaining an airtight chamber. The specimen stage and specimen are subjected to a reactive plasma gas that is either DC or RF excited. The apparatus can be mounted on the analytical electron microscope (AEM) for cleaning the interior of the microscope.

The microscopic world: A demonstration of electron microscopy for younger students

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Horton, Linda L.

1992-01-01

The purpose is to excite students about the importance of scientific investigation and demonstrate why they should look at things in greater detail, extending beyond superficial examination. The topics covered include: microscopy, scanning electron microscopes, high magnification, and the scientific method.

Nucleotide-Specific Contrast for DNA Sequencing by Electron Spectroscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mankos, Marian; Persson, Henrik H. J.; N’Diaye, Alpha T.

DNA sequencing by imaging in an electron microscope is an approach that holds promise to deliver long reads with low error rates and without the need for amplification. Earlier work using transmission electron microscopes, which use high electron energies on the order of 100 keV, has shown that low contrast and radiation damage necessitates the use of heavy atom labeling of individual nucleotides, which increases the read error rates. Other prior work using scattering electrons with much lower energy has shown to suppress beam damage on DNA. Here we explore possibilities to increase contrast by employing two methods, X-ray photoelectronmore » and Auger electron spectroscopy. Using bulk DNA samples with monomers of each base, both methods are shown to provide contrast mechanisms that can distinguish individual nucleotides without labels. In conclusion, both spectroscopic techniques can be readily implemented in a low energy electron microscope, which may enable label-free DNA sequencing by direct imaging.« less

Nucleotide-Specific Contrast for DNA Sequencing by Electron Spectroscopy

DOE PAGES

Mankos, Marian; Persson, Henrik H. J.; N’Diaye, Alpha T.; ...

2016-05-05

DNA sequencing by imaging in an electron microscope is an approach that holds promise to deliver long reads with low error rates and without the need for amplification. Earlier work using transmission electron microscopes, which use high electron energies on the order of 100 keV, has shown that low contrast and radiation damage necessitates the use of heavy atom labeling of individual nucleotides, which increases the read error rates. Other prior work using scattering electrons with much lower energy has shown to suppress beam damage on DNA. Here we explore possibilities to increase contrast by employing two methods, X-ray photoelectronmore » and Auger electron spectroscopy. Using bulk DNA samples with monomers of each base, both methods are shown to provide contrast mechanisms that can distinguish individual nucleotides without labels. In conclusion, both spectroscopic techniques can be readily implemented in a low energy electron microscope, which may enable label-free DNA sequencing by direct imaging.« less

Artificial submicron or nanometer speckle fabricating technique and electron microscope speckle photography

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu Zhanwei; Xie Huimin; Fang Daining

2007-03-15

In this article, a novel artificial submicro- or nanometer speckle fabricating technique is proposed by taking advantage of submicro or nanometer particles. In the technique, submicron or nanometer particles were adhered to an object surface by using ultrasonic dispersing technique. The particles on the object surface can be regarded as submicro or nanometer speckle by using a scanning electronic microscope at a special magnification. In addition, an electron microscope speckle photography (EMSP) method is developed to measure in-plane submicron or nanometer deformation of the object coated with the artificial submicro or nanometer speckles. The principle of artificial submicro or nanometermore » speckle fabricating technique and the EMSP method are discussed in detail in this article. Some typical applications of this method are offered. The experimental results verified that the artificial submicro or nanometer speckle fabricating technique and EMSP method is feasible.« less

Correction of image drift and distortion in a scanning electron microscopy.

PubMed

Jin, P; Li, X

2015-12-01

Continuous research on small-scale mechanical structures and systems has attracted strong demand for ultrafine deformation and strain measurements. Conventional optical microscope cannot meet such requirements owing to its lower spatial resolution. Therefore, high-resolution scanning electron microscope has become the preferred system for high spatial resolution imaging and measurements. However, scanning electron microscope usually is contaminated by distortion and drift aberrations which cause serious errors to precise imaging and measurements of tiny structures. This paper develops a new method to correct drift and distortion aberrations of scanning electron microscope images, and evaluates the effect of correction by comparing corrected images with scanning electron microscope image of a standard sample. The drift correction is based on the interpolation scheme, where a series of images are captured at one location of the sample and perform image correlation between the first image and the consequent images to interpolate the drift-time relationship of scanning electron microscope images. The distortion correction employs the axial symmetry model of charged particle imaging theory to two images sharing with the same location of one object under different imaging fields of view. The difference apart from rigid displacement between the mentioned two images will give distortion parameters. Three-order precision is considered in the model and experiment shows that one pixel maximum correction is obtained for the employed high-resolution electron microscopic system. © 2015 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2015 Royal Microscopical Society.

Confocal laser scanning microscopic photoconversion: a new method to stabilize fluorescently labeled cellular elements for electron microscopic analysis.

PubMed

Colello, Raymond J; Tozer, Jordan; Henderson, Scott C

2012-01-01

Photoconversion, the method by which a fluorescent dye is transformed into a stable, osmiophilic product that can be visualized by electron microscopy, is the most widely used method to enable the ultrastructural analysis of fluorescently labeled cellular structures. Nevertheless, the conventional method of photoconversion using widefield fluorescence microscopy requires long reaction times and results in low-resolution cell targeting. Accordingly, we have developed a photoconversion method that ameliorates these limitations by adapting confocal laser scanning microscopy to the procedure. We have found that this method greatly reduces photoconversion times, as compared to conventional wide field microscopy. Moreover, region-of-interest scanning capabilities of a confocal microscope facilitate the targeting of the photoconversion process to individual cellular or subcellular elements within a fluorescent field. This reduces the area of the cell exposed to light energy, thereby reducing the ultrastructural damage common to this process when widefield microscopes are employed. © 2012 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Transmission electron microscope studies of extraterrestrial materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keller, Lindsay P.

1995-01-01

Transmission Electron Microscopy, X-Ray spectrometry and electron-energy-loss spectroscopy are used to analyse carbon in interplanetary dust particles. Optical micrographs are shown depicting cross sections of the dust particles embedded in sulphur. Selected-area electron diffraction patterns are shown. Transmission Electron Microscope specimens of lunar soil were prepared using two methods: ion-milling and ultramicrotomy. A combination of high resolution TEM imaging and electron diffraction is used to characterize the opaque assemblages. The opaque assemblages analyzed in this study are dominated by ilmenite with lesser rutile and spinel exsolutions, and traces of Fe metal.

Nonlinear least squares regression for single image scanning electron microscope signal-to-noise ratio estimation.

PubMed

Sim, K S; Norhisham, S

2016-11-01

A new method based on nonlinear least squares regression (NLLSR) is formulated to estimate signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of scanning electron microscope (SEM) images. The estimation of SNR value based on NLLSR method is compared with the three existing methods of nearest neighbourhood, first-order interpolation and the combination of both nearest neighbourhood and first-order interpolation. Samples of SEM images with different textures, contrasts and edges were used to test the performance of NLLSR method in estimating the SNR values of the SEM images. It is shown that the NLLSR method is able to produce better estimation accuracy as compared to the other three existing methods. According to the SNR results obtained from the experiment, the NLLSR method is able to produce approximately less than 1% of SNR error difference as compared to the other three existing methods. © 2016 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2016 Royal Microscopical Society.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Juffmann, Thomas; Koppell, Stewart A.; Klopfer, Brannon B.

Feynman once asked physicists to build better electron microscopes to be able to watch biology at work. While electron microscopes can now provide atomic resolution, electron beam induced specimen damage precludes high resolution imaging of sensitive materials, such as single proteins or polymers. Here, we use simulations to show that an electron microscope based on a multi-pass measurement protocol enables imaging of single proteins, without averaging structures over multiple images. While we demonstrate the method for particular imaging targets, the approach is broadly applicable and is expected to improve resolution and sensitivity for a range of electron microscopy imaging modalities,more » including, for example, scanning and spectroscopic techniques. The approach implements a quantum mechanically optimal strategy which under idealized conditions can be considered interaction-free.« less

Optics of high-performance electron microscopes*

PubMed Central

Rose, H H

2008-01-01

During recent years, the theory of charged particle optics together with advances in fabrication tolerances and experimental techniques has lead to very significant advances in high-performance electron microscopes. Here, we will describe which theoretical tools, inventions and designs have driven this development. We cover the basic theory of higher-order electron optics and of image formation in electron microscopes. This leads to a description of different methods to correct aberrations by multipole fields and to a discussion of the most advanced design that take advantage of these techniques. The theory of electron mirrors is developed and it is shown how this can be used to correct aberrations and to design energy filters. Finally, different types of energy filters are described. PMID:27877933

Multi-pass transmission electron microscopy

DOE PAGES

Juffmann, Thomas; Koppell, Stewart A.; Klopfer, Brannon B.; ...

2017-05-10

Feynman once asked physicists to build better electron microscopes to be able to watch biology at work. While electron microscopes can now provide atomic resolution, electron beam induced specimen damage precludes high resolution imaging of sensitive materials, such as single proteins or polymers. Here, we use simulations to show that an electron microscope based on a multi-pass measurement protocol enables imaging of single proteins, without averaging structures over multiple images. While we demonstrate the method for particular imaging targets, the approach is broadly applicable and is expected to improve resolution and sensitivity for a range of electron microscopy imaging modalities,more » including, for example, scanning and spectroscopic techniques. The approach implements a quantum mechanically optimal strategy which under idealized conditions can be considered interaction-free.« less

Electron Source Brightness and Illumination Semi-Angle Distribution Measurement in a Transmission Electron Microscope.

PubMed

Börrnert, Felix; Renner, Julian; Kaiser, Ute

2018-05-21

The electron source brightness is an important parameter in an electron microscope. Reliable and easy brightness measurement routes are not easily found. A determination method for the illumination semi-angle distribution in transmission electron microscopy is even less well documented. Herein, we report a simple measurement route for both entities and demonstrate it on a state-of-the-art instrument. The reduced axial brightness of the FEI X-FEG with a monochromator was determined to be larger than 108 A/(m2 sr V).

Synthesis Properties and Electron Spin Resonance Properties of Titanic Materials (abstract)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cho, Jung Min; Lee, Jun; Kim, Tak Hee; Sun, Min Ho; Jang, Young Bae; Cho, Sung June

2009-04-01

Titanic materials were synthesized by hydrothermal method of TiO2 anatase in 10M LiOH, 10M NaOH, and 14M KOH at 130° C for 30 hours. Alkaline media were removed from the synthesized products using 0.1N HCl aqueous solution. The as-prepared samples were characterized by scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller isotherm, and electron spin resonance. Different shapes of synthesized products were observed through the typical electron microscope and indicated that the formation of the different morphologies depends on the treatment conditions of highly alkaline media. Many micropores were observed in the cubic or octahedral type of TiO2 samples through the typical electron microscope and Langmuir adsorption-desorption isotherm of liquid nitrogen at 77° K. Electron spin resonance studies have also been carried out to verify the existence of paramagnetic sites such as oxygen vacancies on the titania samples. The effect of alkali metal ions on the morphologies and physicochemical properties of nanoscale titania are discussed.

Development of an environmental high-voltage electron microscope for reaction science.

PubMed

Tanaka, Nobuo; Usukura, Jiro; Kusunoki, Michiko; Saito, Yahachi; Sasaki, Katuhiro; Tanji, Takayoshi; Muto, Shunsuke; Arai, Shigeo

2013-02-01

Environmental transmission electron microscopy and ultra-high resolution electron microscopic observation using aberration correctors have recently emerged as topics of great interest. The former method is an extension of the so-called in situ electron microscopy that has been performed since the 1970s. Current research in this area has been focusing on dynamic observation with atomic resolution under gaseous atmospheres and in liquids. Since 2007, Nagoya University has been developing a new 1-MV high voltage (scanning) transmission electron microscope that can be used to observe nanomaterials under conditions that include the presence of gases, liquids and illuminating lights, and it can be also used to perform mechanical operations to nanometre-sized areas as well as electron tomography and elemental analysis by electron energy loss spectroscopy. The new instrument has been used to image and analyse various types of samples including biological ones.

SEM analysis of ionizing radiation effects in linear integrated circuits. [Scanning Electron Microscope

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stanley, A. G.; Gauthier, M. K.

1977-01-01

A successful diagnostic technique was developed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) as a precision tool to determine ionization effects in integrated circuits. Previous SEM methods radiated the entire semiconductor chip or major areas. The large area exposure methods do not reveal the exact components which are sensitive to radiation. To locate these sensitive components a new method was developed, which consisted in successively irradiating selected components on the device chip with equal doses of electrons /10 to the 6th rad (Si)/, while the whole device was subjected to representative bias conditions. A suitable device parameter was measured in situ after each successive irradiation with the beam off.

Accurate virus quantitation using a Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM) detector in a scanning electron microscope.

PubMed

Blancett, Candace D; Fetterer, David P; Koistinen, Keith A; Morazzani, Elaine M; Monninger, Mitchell K; Piper, Ashley E; Kuehl, Kathleen A; Kearney, Brian J; Norris, Sarah L; Rossi, Cynthia A; Glass, Pamela J; Sun, Mei G

2017-10-01

A method for accurate quantitation of virus particles has long been sought, but a perfect method still eludes the scientific community. Electron Microscopy (EM) quantitation is a valuable technique because it provides direct morphology information and counts of all viral particles, whether or not they are infectious. In the past, EM negative stain quantitation methods have been cited as inaccurate, non-reproducible, and with detection limits that were too high to be useful. To improve accuracy and reproducibility, we have developed a method termed Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy - Virus Quantitation (STEM-VQ), which simplifies sample preparation and uses a high throughput STEM detector in a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) coupled with commercially available software. In this paper, we demonstrate STEM-VQ with an alphavirus stock preparation to present the method's accuracy and reproducibility, including a comparison of STEM-VQ to viral plaque assay and the ViroCyt Virus Counter. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Physics and engineering aspects of cell and tissue imaging systems: microscopic devices and computer assisted diagnosis.

PubMed

Chen, Xiaodong; Ren, Liqiang; Zheng, Bin; Liu, Hong

2013-01-01

The conventional optical microscopes have been used widely in scientific research and in clinical practice. The modern digital microscopic devices combine the power of optical imaging and computerized analysis, archiving and communication techniques. It has a great potential in pathological examinations for improving the efficiency and accuracy of clinical diagnosis. This chapter reviews the basic optical principles of conventional microscopes, fluorescence microscopes and electron microscopes. The recent developments and future clinical applications of advanced digital microscopic imaging methods and computer assisted diagnosis schemes are also discussed.

Experimental evaluation of environmental scanning electron microscopes at high chamber pressure.

PubMed

Fitzek, H; Schroettner, H; Wagner, J; Hofer, F; Rattenberger, J

2015-11-01

In environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) high pressure applications have become increasingly important. Wet or biological samples can be investigated without time-consuming sample preparation and potential artefacts from this preparation can be neglected. Unfortunately, the signal-to-noise ratio strongly decreases with increasing chamber pressure. To evaluate the high pressure performance of ESEM and to compare different electron microscopes, information about spatial resolution and detector type is not enough. On the one hand, the scattering of the primary electron beam increases, which vanishes the contrast in images; and on the other hand, the secondary electrons (SE) signal amplification decreases. The stagnation gas thickness (effective distance the beam has to travel through the imaging gas) as well as the SE detection system depend on the microscope and for a complete and serious evaluation of an ESEM or low vacuum SEM it is necessary to specify these two parameters. A method is presented to determine the fraction of scattered and unscattered electrons and to calculate the stagnation gas thickness (θ). To evaluate the high pressure performance of the SE detection system, a method is presented that allows for an analysis of a single image and the calculation of the signal-to-noise ratio of this image. All investigations are performed on an FEI ESEM Quanta 600 (field emission gun) and an FEI ESEM Quanta 200 (thermionic gun). These methods and measurements should represent opportunities for evaluating the high pressure performance of an ESEM. © 2015 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2015 Royal Microscopical Society.

Combined use of optical and electron microscopic techniques for the measurement of hygroscopic property, chemical composition, and morphology of individual aerosol particles.

PubMed

Ahn, Kang-Ho; Kim, Sun-Man; Jung, Hae-Jin; Lee, Mi-Jung; Eom, Hyo-Jin; Maskey, Shila; Ro, Chul-Un

2010-10-01

In this work, an analytical method for the characterization of the hygroscopic property, chemical composition, and morphology of individual aerosol particles is introduced. The method, which is based on the combined use of optical and electron microscopic techniques, is simple and easy to apply. An optical microscopic technique was used to perform the visual observation of the phase transformation and hygroscopic growth of aerosol particles on a single particle level. A quantitative energy-dispersive electron probe X-ray microanalysis, named low-Z particle EPMA, was used to perform a quantitative chemical speciation of the same individual particles after the measurement of the hygroscopic property. To validate the analytical methodology, the hygroscopic properties of artificially generated NaCl, KCl, (NH(4))(2)SO(4), and Na(2)SO(4) aerosol particles of micrometer size were investigated. The practical applicability of the analytical method for studying the hygroscopic property, chemical composition, and morphology of ambient aerosol particles is demonstrated.

Analysis with electron microscope of multielement samples using pure element standards

DOEpatents

King, Wayne E.

1987-01-01

A method and modified analytical electron microscope for determining the concentration of elements in a multielement sample by exposing samples with differing thicknesses for each element to a beam of electrons, simultaneously measuring the electron dosage and x-ray intensities for each sample of element to determine a "K.sub.AB " value to be used in the equation ##EQU1## where I is intensity and C is concentration for elements A and B, and exposing the multielement sample to determine the concentrations of the elements in the sample.

Fixation methods for electron microscopy of human and other liver

PubMed Central

Wisse, Eddie; Braet, Filip; Duimel, Hans; Vreuls, Celien; Koek, Ger; Olde Damink, Steven WM; van den Broek, Maartje AJ; De Geest, Bart; Dejong, Cees HC; Tateno, Chise; Frederik, Peter

2010-01-01

For an electron microscopic study of the liver, expertise and complicated, time-consuming processing of hepatic tissues and cells is needed. The interpretation of electron microscopy (EM) images requires knowledge of the liver fine structure and experience with the numerous artifacts in fixation, embedding, sectioning, contrast staining and microscopic imaging. Hence, the aim of this paper is to present a detailed summary of different methods for the preparation of hepatic cells and tissue, for the purpose of preserving long-standing expertise and to encourage new investigators and clinicians to include EM studies of liver cells and tissue in their projects. PMID:20556830

Scanning electron microscope cathodoluminescence imaging of subgrain boundaries, twins and planar deformation features in quartz

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamers, M. F.; Pennock, G. M.; Drury, M. R.

2017-04-01

The study of deformation features has been of great importance to determine deformation mechanisms in quartz. Relevant microstructures in both growth and deformation processes include dislocations, subgrains, subgrain boundaries, Brazil and Dauphiné twins and planar deformation features (PDFs). Dislocations and twin boundaries are most commonly imaged using a transmission electron microscope (TEM), because these cannot directly be observed using light microscopy, in contrast to PDFs. Here, we show that red-filtered cathodoluminescence imaging in a scanning electron microscope (SEM) is a useful method to visualise subgrain boundaries, Brazil and Dauphiné twin boundaries. Because standard petrographic thin sections can be studied in the SEM, the observed structures can be directly and easily correlated to light microscopy studies. In contrast to TEM preparation methods, SEM techniques are non-destructive to the area of interest on a petrographic thin section.

High spatial resolution detection of low-energy electrons using an event-counting method, application to point projection microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salançon, Evelyne; Degiovanni, Alain; Lapena, Laurent; Morin, Roger

2018-04-01

An event-counting method using a two-microchannel plate stack in a low-energy electron point projection microscope is implemented. 15 μm detector spatial resolution, i.e., the distance between first-neighbor microchannels, is demonstrated. This leads to a 7 times better microscope resolution. Compared to previous work with neutrons [Tremsin et al., Nucl. Instrum. Methods Phys. Res., Sect. A 592, 374 (2008)], the large number of detection events achieved with electrons shows that the local response of the detector is mainly governed by the angle between the hexagonal structures of the two microchannel plates. Using this method in point projection microscopy offers the prospect of working with a greater source-object distance (350 nm instead of 50 nm), advancing toward atomic resolution.

Indentation-Enabled In Situ Mechanical Characterization of Micro/Nanopillars in Electron Microscopes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Qiang; Fu, Xidan; Guo, Xiaolei; Liu, Zhiying; Shi, Yan; Zhang, Di

2018-04-01

Indentation-enabled micro/nanomechanical characterization of small-scale specimens provides powerful new tools for probing materials properties that were once unattainable by conventional experimental methods. Recent advancement in instrumentation further allows mechanical testing to be carried out in situ in electron microscopes, with high spatial and temporal resolution. This review discusses the recent development of nanoindentation-enabled in situ mechanical testing in electron microscopes, with an emphasis on the study of micro/nanopillars. Focus is given to novel applications beyond simple compressive and tensile testing that have been developed in the past few years, and limitations and possible future research directions in this field are proposed and discussed.

In situ flat embedding of monolayers and cell relocation in the acrylic resin LR white for comparative light and electron microscopy studies.

PubMed

Steiner, M; Schöfer, C; Mosgoeller, W

1994-12-01

A simple and reliable method has been developed for the in situ LR White embedding of cell monolayers grown on glass cover-slips. Combined with cytochemical or immunological procedures, this technique allows light and/or electron microscopy investigations of a large number of cells in the same horizontal plane within a relatively short period of time. It can be applied to cells grown on microgrid finder cover-slips which allows a distinct site of even an individual cell of a monolayer to be studied at first at the light microscope level and subsequently at the electron microscope level. Hence, it is also suitable for controlling manipulation of single cells, followed by their serial sectioning after relocation in the electron microscope.

Computer synthesis of high resolution electron micrographs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nathan, R.

1976-01-01

Specimen damage, spherical aberration, low contrast and noisy sensors combine to prevent direct atomic viewing in a conventional electron microscope. The paper describes two methods for obtaining ultra-high resolution in biological specimens under the electron microscope. The first method assumes the physical limits of the electron objective lens and uses a series of dark field images of biological crystals to obtain direct information on the phases of the Fourier diffraction maxima; this information is used in an appropriate computer to synthesize a large aperture lens for a 1-A resolution. The second method assumes there is sufficient amplitude scatter from images recorded in focus which can be utilized with a sensitive densitometer and computer contrast stretching to yield fine structure image details. Cancer virus characterization is discussed as an illustrative example. Numerous photographs supplement the text.

Automated grain mapping using wide angle convergent beam electron diffraction in transmission electron microscope for nanomaterials.

PubMed

Kumar, Vineet

2011-12-01

The grain size statistics, commonly derived from the grain map of a material sample, are important microstructure characteristics that greatly influence its properties. The grain map for nanomaterials is usually obtained manually by visual inspection of the transmission electron microscope (TEM) micrographs because automated methods do not perform satisfactorily. While the visual inspection method provides reliable results, it is a labor intensive process and is often prone to human errors. In this article, an automated grain mapping method is developed using TEM diffraction patterns. The presented method uses wide angle convergent beam diffraction in the TEM. The automated technique was applied on a platinum thin film sample to obtain the grain map and subsequently derive grain size statistics from it. The grain size statistics obtained with the automated method were found in good agreement with the visual inspection method.

Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) Procedure for HE Powders on a Zeiss Sigma HD VP SEM

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zaka, F.

This method describes the characterization of inert and HE materials by the Zeiss Sigma HD VP field emission Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The SEM uses an accelerated electron beam to generate high-magnification images of explosives and other materials. It is fitted with five detectors (SE, Inlens, STEM, VPSE, HDBSD) to enable imaging of the sample via different secondary electron signatures, angles, and energies. In addition to imaging through electron detection, the microscope is also fitted with two Oxford Instrument Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (EDS) 80 mm detectors to generate elemental constituent spectra and two-dimensional maps of the material being scanned.

Interference experiment with asymmetric double slit by using 1.2-MV field emission transmission electron microscope.

PubMed

Harada, Ken; Akashi, Tetsuya; Niitsu, Kodai; Shimada, Keiko; Ono, Yoshimasa A; Shindo, Daisuke; Shinada, Hiroyuki; Mori, Shigeo

2018-01-17

Advanced electron microscopy technologies have made it possible to perform precise double-slit interference experiments. We used a 1.2-MV field emission electron microscope providing coherent electron waves and a direct detection camera system enabling single-electron detections at a sub-second exposure time. We developed a method to perform the interference experiment by using an asymmetric double-slit fabricated by a focused ion beam instrument and by operating the microscope under a "pre-Fraunhofer" condition, different from the Fraunhofer condition of conventional double-slit experiments. Here, pre-Fraunhofer condition means that each single-slit observation was performed under the Fraunhofer condition, while the double-slit observations were performed under the Fresnel condition. The interference experiments with each single slit and with the asymmetric double slit were carried out under two different electron dose conditions: high-dose for calculation of electron probability distribution and low-dose for each single electron distribution. Finally, we exemplified the distribution of single electrons by color-coding according to the above three types of experiments as a composite image.

Method and apparatus for a high-resolution three dimensional confocal scanning transmission electron microscope

DOEpatents

de Jonge, Niels [Oak Ridge, TN

2010-08-17

A confocal scanning transmission electron microscope which includes an electron illumination device providing an incident electron beam propagating in a direction defining a propagation axis, and a precision specimen scanning stage positioned along the propagation axis and movable in at least one direction transverse to the propagation axis. The precision specimen scanning stage is configured for positioning a specimen relative to the incident electron beam. A projector lens receives a transmitted electron beam transmitted through at least part of the specimen and focuses this transmitted beam onto an image plane, where the transmitted beam results from the specimen being illuminated by the incident electron beam. A detection system is placed approximately in the image plane.

Characterization of quantum well structures using a photocathode electron microscope

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Spencer, Michael G.; Scott, Craig J.

1989-01-01

Present day integrated circuits pose a challenge to conventional electronic and mechanical test methods. Feature sizes in the submicron and nanometric regime require radical approaches in order to facilitate electrical contact to circuits and devices being tested. In addition, microwave operating frequencies require careful attention to distributed effects when considering the electrical signal paths within and external to the device under test. An alternative testing approach which combines the best of electrical and optical time domain testing is presented, namely photocathode electron microscope quantitative voltage contrast (PEMQVC).

3D-measurement using a scanning electron microscope with four Everhart-Thornley detectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vynnyk, Taras; Scheuer, Renke; Reithmeier, Eduard

2011-06-01

Due to the emerging degree of miniaturization in microstructures, Scanning-Electron-Microscopes (SEM) have become important instruments in the quality assurance of chip manufacturing. With a two- or multiple detector system for secondary electrons, a SEM can be used for the reconstruction of three dimensional surface profiles. Although there are several projects dealing with the reconstruction of three dimensional surfaces using electron microscopes with multiple Everhart-Thornley detectors (ETD), there is no profound knowledge of the behaviour of emitted electrons. Hence, several values, which are used for reconstruction algorithms, such as the photometric method, are only estimates; for instance, the exact collection efficiency of the ETD, which is still unknown. This paper deals with the simulation of electron trajectories in a one-, two- and four-detector system with varying working distances and varying grid currents. For each detector, the collection efficiency is determined by taking the working distance and grid current into account. Based on the gathered information, a new collection grid, which provides a homogenous emission signal for each detector of a multiple detector system, is developed. Finally, the results of the preceding tests are utilized for a reconstruction of a three dimensional surface using the photometric method with a non-lambert intensity distribution.

In-line three-dimensional holography of nanocrystalline objects at atomic resolution

PubMed Central

Chen, F.-R.; Van Dyck, D.; Kisielowski, C.

2016-01-01

Resolution and sensitivity of the latest generation aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopes allow the vast majority of single atoms to be imaged with sub-Ångstrom resolution and their locations determined in an image plane with a precision that exceeds the 1.9-pm wavelength of 300 kV electrons. Such unprecedented performance allows expansion of electron microscopic investigations with atomic resolution into the third dimension. Here we report a general tomographic method to recover the three-dimensional shape of a crystalline particle from high-resolution images of a single projection without the need for sample rotation. The method is compatible with low dose rate electron microscopy, which improves on signal quality, while minimizing electron beam-induced structure modifications even for small particles or surfaces. We apply it to germanium, gold and magnesium oxide particles, and achieve a depth resolution of 1–2 Å, which is smaller than inter-atomic distances. PMID:26887849

An historical account of the development and applications of the negative staining technique to the electron microscopy of viruses.

PubMed

Horne, R W; Wildy, P

1979-09-01

A brief historical account of the development and applications of the negative staining techniques to the study of the structure of viruses and their components as observed in the electron microscope is presented. Although the basic method of surrounding or embedding specimens in opaque dyes was used in light microscopy dating from about 1884, the equivalent preparative techniques applied to electron microscopy were comparatively recent. The combination of experiments on a sophisticated bacterial virus and the installation of a high resolution electron microscope in the Cavendish Laboratory, Cambridge, during 1954, subsequently led to the analysis of several important morphological features of animal, plant and bacterial viruses. The implications of the results from these early experiments on viruses and recent developments in negative staining methods for high resolution image analysis of electron micrographs are also discussed.

Asbestos Testing: Is the EPA Misleading You?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Levins, Hoag

1983-01-01

Experts warn that only electron microscopes can see the smaller fibers of asbestos that are known to cause the most cancers, though the Environmental Protection Agency still endorses optical microscopes for asbestos removal verification. Asbestos testing methods are explained and sources of information are provided. (MLF)

Analysis with electron microscope of multielement samples using pure element standards

DOEpatents

King, W.E.

1986-01-06

This disclosure describes a method and modified analytical electron microscope for determining the concentration of elements in a multielement sample by exposing samples with differing thicknesses for each element to a beam of electrons. Simultaneously the electron dosage and x-ray intensities are measured for each sample of element to determine a ''K/sub AB/'' value to be used in the equation (I/sub A/I/sub B/) = K/sub AB/ (C/sub A//C/sub B/), where I is intensity and C is concentration for elements A and B. The multielement sample is exposed to determine the concentrations of the elements in the sample.

Microstructural study of the nickel-base alloy WAZ-20 using qualitative and quantitative electron optical techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Young, S. G.

1973-01-01

The NASA nickel-base alloy WAZ-20 was analyzed by advanced metallographic techniques to qualitatively and quantitatively characterize its phases and stability. The as-cast alloy contained primary gamma-prime, a coarse gamma-gamma prime eutectic, a gamma-fine gamma prime matrix, and MC carbides. A specimen aged at 870 C for 1000 hours contained these same constituents and a few widely scattered high W particles. No detrimental phases (such as sigma or mu) were observed. Scanning electron microscope, light metallography, and replica electron microscope methods are compared. The value of quantitative electron microprobe techniques such as spot and area analysis is demonstrated.

Isotope analysis in the transmission electron microscope.

PubMed

Susi, Toma; Hofer, Christoph; Argentero, Giacomo; Leuthner, Gregor T; Pennycook, Timothy J; Mangler, Clemens; Meyer, Jannik C; Kotakoski, Jani

2016-10-10

The Ångström-sized probe of the scanning transmission electron microscope can visualize and collect spectra from single atoms. This can unambiguously resolve the chemical structure of materials, but not their isotopic composition. Here we differentiate between two isotopes of the same element by quantifying how likely the energetic imaging electrons are to eject atoms. First, we measure the displacement probability in graphene grown from either 12 C or 13 C and describe the process using a quantum mechanical model of lattice vibrations coupled with density functional theory simulations. We then test our spatial resolution in a mixed sample by ejecting individual atoms from nanoscale areas spanning an interface region that is far from atomically sharp, mapping the isotope concentration with a precision better than 20%. Although we use a scanning instrument, our method may be applicable to any atomic resolution transmission electron microscope and to other low-dimensional materials.

Science 101: How Does an Electron Microscope Work?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Robertson, Bill

2013-01-01

Contrary to popular opinion, electron microscopes are not used to look at electrons. They are used to look for structure in things that are too small to observe with an optical microscope, or to obtain images that are magnified much more than is obtainable with an optical microscope. To understand how electron microscopes work, it will help to go…

Highly dispersible diamond nanoparticles for pretreatment of diamond films on Si substrate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Shenjie; Huang, Jian; Zhou, Xinyu; Ren, Bing; Tang, Ke; Xi, Yifan; Wang, Lin; Wang, Linjun; Lu, Yicheng

2018-03-01

High quality diamond film on Si substrate was synthesized by coating diamond nanoparticles prepared by polyglycerol grafting (ND-PG) dispersion as pre-treatment method. Transmission electron microscope indicates that ND-PG is much more dispersible than untreated nanoparticles in organic solvents. The surface morphology was characterized by scanning electron microscope while atomic force microscope was conducted to measure the surface roughness. Microstructure properties were carried out by Raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. The results revealed an increase in nucleation density, an acceleration of growth rate and an improvement of film crystalline quality by using spin-coating ND-PG pretreatment.

A facile thermal decomposition route to synthesise CoFe2O4 nanostructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kalpanadevi, K.; Sinduja, C. R.; Manimekalai, R.

2014-01-01

The synthesis of CoFe2O4 nanoparticles has been achieved by a simple thermal decomposition method from an inorganic precursor, cobalt ferrous cinnamate hydrazinate (CoFe2(cin)3(N2H4)3) which was obtained by a novel precipitation method from the corresponding metal salts, cinnamic acid and hydrazine hydrate. The precursor was characterized by hydrazine and metal analyses, infrared spectral analysis and thermo gravimetric analysis. Under appropriate annealing, CoFe2(cin)3(N2H4)3 yielded CoFe2O4 nanoparticles, which were characterized for their size and structure using X-Ray diffraction (XRD), high resolution transmission electron microscopic (HRTEM), selected area electron diffraction (SAED) and scanning electron microscopic (SEM) techniques.

Reducing charging effects in scanning electron microscope images by Rayleigh contrast stretching method (RCS).

PubMed

Wan Ismail, W Z; Sim, K S; Tso, C P; Ting, H Y

2011-01-01

To reduce undesirable charging effects in scanning electron microscope images, Rayleigh contrast stretching is developed and employed. First, re-scaling is performed on the input image histograms with Rayleigh algorithm. Then, contrast stretching or contrast adjustment is implemented to improve the images while reducing the contrast charging artifacts. This technique has been compared to some existing histogram equalization (HE) extension techniques: recursive sub-image HE, contrast stretching dynamic HE, multipeak HE and recursive mean separate HE. Other post processing methods, such as wavelet approach, spatial filtering, and exponential contrast stretching, are compared as well. Overall, the proposed method produces better image compensation in reducing charging artifacts. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

[Microscopic investigation of vessel wall after endovascular catheter atherectomy].

PubMed

Tsygankov, V N; Khovalkin, R G; Chekmareva, I A; Kalinin, D V; Filippova, E M

2014-01-01

Endovascular target catheter atherectomy (ETCA) - method of artery patency allowing to obtain occlusion substrate. Given the high destructive effect of atherectome's elements on tissue the objective was determination possibility of histological and electron microscopic investigation of this substrate after atherectomy. The research included 8 patients who underwent ETCA of legs arteries. It was observed substrate removal from broken stent in 1 case. 2 of 8 patients had diabetes. Obtained substrate was available for histological and electron microscopic investigation. Atherosclerosis was confirmed in all cases. It was not observed substrate significant morphological changes in patients with presence or absence of diabetes. Microscopic investigation of substrate from broken stent shows pronounced development of granulation tissue that was regarded as special form of reparative regeneration. Finding internal elastic membrane during microscopic investigation in some cases proves radical intervention. The authors consider that microscopic investigation of substrate after ETCA may be used for diagnosis verification, thorough analysis of morphological changes in lesion area and radicalism of atherectomy.

Backscattered electron SEM imaging of resin sections from plant specimens: observation of histological to subcellular structure and CLEM.

PubMed

Rizzo, N W; Duncan, K E; Bourett, T M; Howard, R J

2016-08-01

We have refined methods for biological specimen preparation and low-voltage backscattered electron imaging in the scanning electron microscope that allow for observation at continuous magnifications of ca. 130-70 000 X, and documentation of tissue and subcellular ultrastructure detail. The technique, based upon early work by Ogura & Hasegawa (1980), affords use of significantly larger sections from fixed and resin-embedded specimens than is possible with transmission electron microscopy while providing similar data. After microtomy, the sections, typically ca. 750 nm thick, were dried onto the surface of glass or silicon wafer and stained with heavy metals-the use of grids avoided. The glass/wafer support was then mounted onto standard scanning electron microscopy sample stubs, carbon-coated and imaged directly at an accelerating voltage of 5 kV, using either a yttrium aluminum garnet or ExB backscattered electron detector. Alternatively, the sections could be viewed first by light microscopy, for example to document signal from a fluorescent protein, and then by scanning electron microscopy to provide correlative light/electron microscope (CLEM) data. These methods provide unobstructed access to ultrastructure in the spatial context of a section ca. 7 × 10 mm in size, significantly larger than the typical 0.2 × 0.3 mm section used for conventional transmission electron microscopy imaging. Application of this approach was especially useful when the biology of interest was rare or difficult to find, e.g. a particular cell type, developmental stage, large organ, the interface between cells of interacting organisms, when contextual information within a large tissue was obligatory, or combinations of these factors. In addition, the methods were easily adapted for immunolocalizations. © 2015 The Author. Journal of Microscopy published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd on behalf of the Royal Microscopical Society.

A simplified focusing and astigmatism correction method for a scanning electron microscope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Yihua; Zhang, Xianmin; Li, Hai

2018-01-01

Defocus and astigmatism can lead to blurred images and poor resolution. This paper presents a simplified method for focusing and astigmatism correction of a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The method consists of two steps. In the first step, the fast Fourier transform (FFT) of the SEM image is performed and the FFT is subsequently processed with a threshold to achieve a suitable result. In the second step, the threshold FFT is used for ellipse fitting to determine the presence of defocus and astigmatism. The proposed method clearly provides the relationships between the defocus, the astigmatism and the direction of stretching of the FFT, and it can determine the astigmatism in a single image. Experimental studies are conducted to demonstrate the validity of the proposed method.

Using an Electron Scanning Microscope to Assess the Penetrating Abilities of an Experimental Preparation with Features of a Dental Infiltrant: Preliminary Study.

PubMed

Skucha-Nowak, Małgorzata; Mertas, Anna; Tanasiewicz, Marta

2016-01-01

The resin infiltration technique is one of the micro-invasive methods whose aim is the penetration of demineralized enamel with a low viscosity resin. This technique allows the dentist to avoid the application of mechanical means of treatment. The objective of this preliminary study was to attempt to determine the possibilities of using an electron microscope to assess the penetrating abilities of an experimental preparation with features of a dental infiltrant and to compare the depth of infiltration of the designed experimental preparation with an infiltrant available on the market. A bioactive methacrylate monomer based on PMMAn with built-in metronidazole was synthesized. The commercially available Icon solution (with contrast agent YbF3) and the experimental solution were applied to the relevant parts of teeth. The dissected sections along the long tooth axis and polished surfaces were then examined with use of an electron scanning microscope. The backscattered electron technique gives much better results than the secondary electron method as it makes it possible to localize even very small YbF3 particles. The authors concluded that the backscattered electron technique gives much better results than the secondary electron method as it makes it possible to localize even very small particles of the contrast agent. In order to prevent blockage of decalcified enamel tissue by ytterbium trifluoride (YbF3) grains, a nanoparticle form of that compound should be used (that is, particles with sizes in the range of 10-9 m).

[Normal and pathological elastic tissue under the electron microscope on thin and ultrathin sections (author's transl)].

PubMed

Adnet, J J; Pinteaux, A; Pousse, G; Caulet, T

1976-04-01

Three simple methods (adapted from optical techniques) for normal and pathological elastic tissue caracterisation in electron microscopy on thin and ultrathin sections are proposed. Two of these methods (orcein and fuchsin resorcin) seem to have a specificity for arterial and breast cancer elastic tissue. Weigert's method gives the best contrast.

Diffusion length measurements using the scanning electron microscope. [in semiconductor devices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Weizer, V. G.

1975-01-01

A measurement technique employing the scanning electron microscope is described in which values of the true bulk diffusion length are obtained. It is shown that surface recombination effects can be eliminated through the application of highly doped surface field layers. The influence of high injection level effects and low-high junction current generation on the resulting measurement was investigated. Close agreement is found between the diffusion lengths measured by this method and those obtained using a penetrating radiation technique.

Local dynamic range compensation for scanning electron microscope imaging system.

PubMed

Sim, K S; Huang, Y H

2015-01-01

This is the extended project by introducing the modified dynamic range histogram modification (MDRHM) and is presented in this paper. This technique is used to enhance the scanning electron microscope (SEM) imaging system. By comparing with the conventional histogram modification compensators, this technique utilizes histogram profiling by extending the dynamic range of each tile of an image to the limit of 0-255 range while retains its histogram shape. The proposed technique yields better image compensation compared to conventional methods. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

DNA Binding Peptide Directed Synthesis of Continuous DNA Nanowires for Analysis of Large DNA Molecules by Scanning Electron Microscope.

PubMed

Kim, Kyung-Il; Lee, Seonghyun; Jin, Xuelin; Kim, Su Ji; Jo, Kyubong; Lee, Jung Heon

2017-01-01

Synthesis of smooth and continuous DNA nanowires, preserving the original structure of native DNA, and allowing its analysis by scanning electron microscope (SEM), is demonstrated. Gold nanoparticles densely assembled on the DNA backbone via thiol-tagged DNA binding peptides work as seeds for metallization of DNA. This method allows whole analysis of DNA molecules with entangled 3D features. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

ELECTRON MICROSCOPIC EXAMINATION OF SUBCELLULAR FRACTIONS

PubMed Central

Baudhuin, Pierre; Evrard, Philippe; Berthet, Jacques

1967-01-01

A method is described for preparing, by filtration on Millipore filters, very thin (about 10 µ) pellicles of packed particles. These pellicles can be embedded in Epon for electron microscopic examination. They are also suitable for cytochemical assays. The method was used with various particulate fractions from rat liver. Its main advantages over the usual centrifugal packing techniques are that it produces heterogeneity solely in the direction perpendicular to the surface of the pellicle and that sections covering the whole depth of the pellicle can be photographed in a single field. It thus answers the essential criterion of random sampling and can be used for accurate quantitative evaluations. PMID:10976209

Application of automatic image analysis for morphometric studies of peroxisomes stained cytochemically for catalase. II. Light-microscopic application.

PubMed

Beier, K; Fahimi, H D

1987-01-01

The feasibility of the application of a television-based image analyzer, the Texture Analysis System (TAS, Leitz Wetzlar, FRG) in conjunction with a light microscope for morphometric studies of hepatic peroxisomes has been investigated. Rat liver peroxisomes were stained with the alkaline-DAB method for localization of catalase and semithin (0.25 and 1 micron) sections of plastic-embedded material were examined under an oil immersion objective. The TAS detected the peroxisomal profiles selectively and determined their morphometric parameters automatically. The same parameters were obtained also by morphometric analysis of electron micrographs from the same material. The volume density of peroxisomes determined by TAS in semithin sections of normal liver, after correction for section thickness, is quite close to the corresponding value obtained by morphometry of electron micrographs. The difference is approximately 20%. In animals treated with the hypolipidemic drug bezafibrate, which causes proliferation of peroxisomes, TAS detected readily the increase in volume density of peroxisomes in semithin sections. In comparison with electron microscopy, however, the light-microscopic approach seems to underestimate the proliferation. The lower resolution of the light microscope and overlapping of neighbouring particles in relatively thick sections used for light-microscopic analysis may account for the differences. The present study has demonstrated the usefulness of automatic image analysis in conjunction with selective cytochemical staining of peroxisomes for morphometry of this organelle in rat liver. The light-microscopic approach is not only faster but is also extremely economical by obviating the use of an electron microscope.

Structure of IgG and IgY molecules in ribosome-antibody complexes as studied by electron microscopy.

PubMed

Noll, F; Lutsch, G; Bielka, H

1982-03-01

The overall shape and dimensions of IgG (rabbit) and IgY (chicken) antibodies against ribosomal proteins have been studied in electron micrographs of ribosome-antibody complexes. The antibodies appear as Y-shaped molecules with an angle of about 90 degrees between their Fab arms. The length of one Fab arm amounts to about 10 nm. No differences between the IgG and IgY molecules could be detected electron microscopically. The data obtained on the shape of IgG and IgY correlate with those of earlier electron microscopic studies while the determined size of the Fab arms is in the range found by scattering methods.

Comparative study of image contrast in scanning electron microscope and helium ion microscope.

PubMed

O'Connell, R; Chen, Y; Zhang, H; Zhou, Y; Fox, D; Maguire, P; Wang, J J; Rodenburg, C

2017-12-01

Images of Ga + -implanted amorphous silicon layers in a 110 n-type silicon substrate have been collected by a range of detectors in a scanning electron microscope and a helium ion microscope. The effects of the implantation dose and imaging parameters (beam energy, dwell time, etc.) on the image contrast were investigated. We demonstrate a similar relationship for both the helium ion microscope Everhart-Thornley and scanning electron microscope Inlens detectors between the contrast of the images and the Ga + density and imaging parameters. These results also show that dynamic charging effects have a significant impact on the quantification of the helium ion microscope and scanning electron microscope contrast. © 2017 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2017 Royal Microscopical Society.

Atomic force microscopic imaging of Acanthamoeba castellanii and Balamuthia mandrillaris trophozoites and cysts.

PubMed

Aqeel, Yousuf; Siddiqui, Ruqaiyyah; Ateeq, Muhammad; Raza Shah, Muhammad; Kulsoom, Huma; Khan, Naveed Ahmed

2015-01-01

Light microscopy and electron microscopy have been successfully used in the study of microbes, as well as free-living protists. Unlike light microscopy, which enables us to observe living organisms or the electron microscope which provides a two-dimensional image, atomic force microscopy provides a three-dimensional surface profile. Here, we observed two free-living amoebae, Acanthamoeba castellanii and Balamuthia mandrillaris under the phase contrast inverted microscope, transmission electron microscope and atomic force microscope. Although light microscopy was of lower magnification, it revealed functional biology of live amoebae such as motility and osmoregulation using contractile vacuoles of the trophozoite stage, but it is of limited value in defining the cyst stage. In contrast, transmission electron microscopy showed significantly greater magnification and resolution to reveal the ultra-structural features of trophozoites and cysts including intracellular organelles and cyst wall characteristics but it only produced a snapshot in time of a dead amoeba cell. Atomic force microscopy produced three-dimensional images providing detailed topographic description of shape and surface, phase imaging measuring boundary stiffness, and amplitude measurements including width, height and length of A. castellanii and B. mandrillaris trophozoites and cysts. These results demonstrate the importance of the application of various microscopic methods in the biological and structural characterization of the whole cell, ultra-structural features, as well as surface components and cytoskeleton of protist pathogens. © 2014 The Author(s) Journal of Eukaryotic Microbiology © 2014 International Society of Protistologists.

The qualitative f-ratio method applied to electron channelling-induced x-ray imaging with an annular silicon drift detector in a scanning electron microscope in the transmission mode.

PubMed

Brodusch, Nicolas; Gauvin, Raynald

2017-09-01

Electron channelling is known to affect the x-ray production when an accelerated electron beam is applied to a crystalline material and is highly dependent on the local crystal orientation. This effect, unless very long counting time are used, is barely noticeable on x-ray energy spectra recorded with conventional silicon drift detectors (SDD) located at a small elevation angle. However, the very high count rates provided by the new commercially available annular SDDs permit now to observe this effect routinely and may, in some circumstances, hide the true elemental x-ray variations due to the local true specimen composition. To circumvent this issue, the recently developed f-ratio method was applied to display qualitatively the true net intensity x-ray variations in a thin specimen of a Ti-6Al-4V alloy in a scanning electron microscope in transmission mode. The diffraction contrast observed in the x-ray images was successfully cancelled through the use of f-ratios and the true composition variations at the grain boundaries could be observed in relation to the dislocation alignment prior to the β-phase nucleation. The qualitative effectiveness in removing channelling effects demonstrated in this work makes the f-ratio, in its quantitative form, a possible alternative to the ZAF method in channelling conditions. © 2017 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2017 Royal Microscopical Society.

Electron microscopic evaluation of a gold glaucoma micro shunt after explantation.

PubMed

Berk, Thomas A; Tam, Diamond Y; Werner, Liliana; Mamalis, Nick; Ahmed, Iqbal Ike K

2015-03-01

We present a case of an explanted gold glaucoma micro shunt (GMS Plus) and the subsequent light and electron microscopic analyses. The shunt was implanted in a patient with medically refractive glaucoma. The intraocular pressure (IOP) was stable at 12 mm Hg 6 months postoperatively but spiked to 26 mm Hg 6 months later; membranous growth was visible on the implant gonioscopically. A second gold micro shunt was placed 2 years after the first. The IOP was 7 mm Hg 1 week postoperatively but increased to 23 mm Hg 3 weeks later; similar membranous growth was visible on this implant. One of the shunts was explanted, and light and scanning electron microscopic analyses revealed encapsulation around the shunt exterior and connective tissue invasion of the microstructure. This represents the first electron microscopic analysis of an explanted gold glaucoma micro shunt and the first unequivocal images of the fibrotic pseudo-capsule traversing its microchannels and fenestrations. Dr. Ahmed is a consultant to and has received research grants from Solx, Inc. No other author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned. Copyright © 2015 ASCRS and ESCRS. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Crystal phase identification

DOEpatents

Michael, Joseph R.; Goehner, Raymond P.; Schlienger, Max E.

2001-01-01

A method and apparatus for determining the crystalline phase and crystalline characteristics of a sample. This invention provides a method and apparatus for unambiguously identifying and determining the crystalline phase and crystalline characteristics of a sample by using an electron beam generator, such as a scanning electron microscope, to obtain a backscattered electron Kikuchi pattern of a sample, and extracting crystallographic and composition data that is matched to database information to provide a quick and automatic method to identify crystalline phases.

Large area fabrication of plasmonic nanoparticle grating structure by conventional scanning electron microscope

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sudheer,, E-mail: sudheer@rrcat.gov.in; Tiwari, P.; Rai, V. N.

Plasmonic nanoparticle grating (PNG) structure of different periods has been fabricated by electron beam lithography using silver halide based transmission electron microscope film as a substrate. Conventional scanning electron microscope is used as a fabrication tool for electron beam lithography. Optical microscope and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) have been used for its morphological and elemental characterization. Optical characterization is performed by UV-Vis absorption spectroscopic technique.

Electron Diffraction Using Transmission Electron Microscopy

PubMed Central

Bendersky, Leonid A.; Gayle, Frank W.

2001-01-01

Electron diffraction via the transmission electron microscope is a powerful method for characterizing the structure of materials, including perfect crystals and defect structures. The advantages of electron diffraction over other methods, e.g., x-ray or neutron, arise from the extremely short wavelength (≈2 pm), the strong atomic scattering, and the ability to examine tiny volumes of matter (≈10 nm3). The NIST Materials Science and Engineering Laboratory has a history of discovery and characterization of new structures through electron diffraction, alone or in combination with other diffraction methods. This paper provides a survey of some of this work enabled through electron microscopy. PMID:27500060

Fabrication and In Situ Transmission Electron Microscope Characterization of Free-Standing Graphene Nanoribbon Devices.

PubMed

Wang, Qing; Kitaura, Ryo; Suzuki, Shoji; Miyauchi, Yuhei; Matsuda, Kazunari; Yamamoto, Yuta; Arai, Shigeo; Shinohara, Hisanori

2016-01-26

Edge-dependent electronic properties of graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) have attracted intense interests. To fully understand the electronic properties of GNRs, the combination of precise structural characterization and electronic property measurement is essential. For this purpose, two experimental techniques using free-standing GNR devices have been developed, which leads to the simultaneous characterization of electronic properties and structures of GNRs. Free-standing graphene has been sculpted by a focused electron beam in transmission electron microscope (TEM) and then purified and narrowed by Joule heating down to several nanometer width. Structure-dependent electronic properties are observed in TEM, and significant increase in sheet resistance and semiconducting behavior become more salient as the width of GNR decreases. The narrowest GNR width we obtained with the present method is about 1.6 nm with a large transport gap of 400 meV.

High throughput secondary electron imaging of organic residues on a graphene surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Yangbo; O'Connell, Robert; Maguire, Pierce; Zhang, Hongzhou

2014-11-01

Surface organic residues inhibit the extraordinary electronic properties of graphene, hindering the development of graphene electronics. However, fundamental understanding of the residue morphology is still absent due to a lack of high-throughput and high-resolution surface characterization methods. Here, we demonstrate that secondary electron (SE) imaging in the scanning electron microscope (SEM) and helium ion microscope (HIM) can provide sub-nanometer information of a graphene surface and reveal the morphology of surface contaminants. Nanoscale polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) residues are visible in the SE imaging, but their contrast, i.e. the apparent lateral dimension, varies with the imaging conditions. We have demonstrated a quantitative approach to readily obtain the physical size of the surface features regardless of the contrast variation. The fidelity of SE imaging is ultimately determined by the probe size of the primary beam. HIM is thus evaluated to be a superior SE imaging technique in terms of surface sensitivity and image fidelity. A highly efficient method to reveal the residues on a graphene surface has therefore been established.

In-line three-dimensional holography of nanocrystalline objects at atomic resolution

DOE PAGES

Chen, F. -R.; Van Dyck, D.; Kisielowski, C.

2016-02-18

We report that resolution and sensitivity of the latest generation aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopes allow the vast majority of single atoms to be imaged with sub-Ångstrom resolution and their locations determined in an image plane with a precision that exceeds the 1.9-pm wavelength of 300 kV electrons. Such unprecedented performance allows expansion of electron microscopic investigations with atomic resolution into the third dimension. Here we show a general tomographic method to recover the three-dimensional shape of a crystalline particle from high-resolution images of a single projection without the need for sample rotation. The method is compatible with low dose ratemore » electron microscopy, which improves on signal quality, while minimizing electron beam-induced structure modifications even for small particles or surfaces. Lastly, we apply it to germanium, gold and magnesium oxide particles, and achieve a depth resolution of 1–2 Å, which is smaller than inter-atomic distances.« less

Electron microscopy of antigen precipitates extracted from gel diffusion plates

PubMed Central

Watson, D. H.; Le Bouvier, G. L.; Tomlinson, J. A.; Walkey, D. G. A.

1966-01-01

A method is described whereby material from virus precipitin lines from agar gel diffusion plates may be examined in the electron microscope by a negative staining technique. ImagesFIGS. 1-2FIGS. 3-4 PMID:4286708

Studies on rock characteristics and timing of creep at selected landslide sites in Taiwan

Treesearch

Cheng-Yi Lee

2000-01-01

A study was conducted to investigate the causes of and rock characteristics at three landslide sites in the Tesngwen Reservoir watershed of southern Taiwan. Research methods used included the petrographic microscope, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), inductively coupled plasma spectroscope (ICP), constant head permeameter in triaxial...

Three-dimensional imaging of adherent cells using FIB/SEM and STEM.

PubMed

Villinger, Clarissa; Schauflinger, Martin; Gregorius, Heiko; Kranz, Christine; Höhn, Katharina; Nafeey, Soufi; Walther, Paul

2014-01-01

In this chapter we describe three different approaches for three-dimensional imaging of electron microscopic samples: serial sectioning transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) tomography, and focused ion beam/scanning electron microscopy (FIB/SEM) tomography. With these methods, relatively large volumes of resin-embedded biological structures can be analyzed at resolutions of a few nm within a reasonable expenditure of time. The traditional method is serial sectioning and imaging the same area in all sections. Another method is TEM tomography that involves tilting a section in the electron beam and then reconstruction of the volume by back projection of the images. When the scanning transmission (STEM) mode is used, thicker sections (up to 1 μm) can be analyzed. The third approach presented here is focused ion beam/scanning electron microscopy (FIB/SEM) tomography, in which a sample is repeatedly milled with a focused ion beam (FIB) and each newly produced block face is imaged with the scanning electron microscope (SEM). This process can be repeated ad libitum in arbitrary small increments allowing 3D analysis of relatively large volumes such as eukaryotic cells. We show that resolution of this approach is considerably improved when the secondary electron signal is used. However, the most important prerequisite for three-dimensional imaging is good specimen preparation. For all three imaging methods, cryo-fixed (high-pressure frozen) and freeze-substituted samples have been used.

Novel scanning electron microscope bulge test technique integrated with loading function

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Li, Chuanwei; Xie, Huimin, E-mail: liuzw@bit.edu.cn, E-mail: xiehm@mail.tsinghua.edu.cn; Liu, Zhanwei, E-mail: liuzw@bit.edu.cn, E-mail: xiehm@mail.tsinghua.edu.cn

2014-10-15

Membranes and film-on-substrate structures are critical elements for some devices in electronics industry and for Micro Electro Mechanical Systems devices. These structures are normally at the scale of micrometer or even nanometer. Thus, the measurement for the mechanical property of these membranes poses a challenge over the conventional measurements at macro-scales. In this study, a novel bulge test method is presented for the evaluation of mechanical property of micro thin membranes. Three aspects are discussed in the study: (a) A novel bulge test with a Scanning Electron Microscope system realizing the function of loading and measuring simultaneously; (b) a simplifiedmore » Digital Image Correlation method for a height measurement; and (c) an imaging distortion correction by the introduction of a scanning Moiré method. Combined with the above techniques, biaxial modulus as well as Young's modulus of the polyimide film can be determined. Besides, a standard tensile test is conducted as an auxiliary experiment to validate the feasibility of the proposed method.« less

SEM technique for imaging and measuring electronic transport in nanocomposites based on electric field induced contrast

DOEpatents

Jesse, Stephen [Knoxville, TN; Geohegan, David B [Knoxville, TN; Guillorn, Michael [Brooktondale, NY

2009-02-17

Methods and apparatus are described for SEM imaging and measuring electronic transport in nanocomposites based on electric field induced contrast. A method includes mounting a sample onto a sample holder, the sample including a sample material; wire bonding leads from the sample holder onto the sample; placing the sample holder in a vacuum chamber of a scanning electron microscope; connecting leads from the sample holder to a power source located outside the vacuum chamber; controlling secondary electron emission from the sample by applying a predetermined voltage to the sample through the leads; and generating an image of the secondary electron emission from the sample. An apparatus includes a sample holder for a scanning electron microscope having an electrical interconnect and leads on top of the sample holder electrically connected to the electrical interconnect; a power source and a controller connected to the electrical interconnect for applying voltage to the sample holder to control the secondary electron emission from a sample mounted on the sample holder; and a computer coupled to a secondary electron detector to generate images of the secondary electron emission from the sample.

Transmission electron microscope CCD camera

DOEpatents

Downing, Kenneth H.

1999-01-01

In order to improve the performance of a CCD camera on a high voltage electron microscope, an electron decelerator is inserted between the microscope column and the CCD. This arrangement optimizes the interaction of the electron beam with the scintillator of the CCD camera while retaining optimization of the microscope optics and of the interaction of the beam with the specimen. Changing the electron beam energy between the specimen and camera allows both to be optimized.

Electron beam analysis of particulate cometary material

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bradley, John

1989-01-01

Electron microscopy will be useful for characterization of inorganic dust grains in returned comet nucleus samples. The choice of instrument(s) will depend primarily on the nature of the samples, but ultimately a variety of electron-beam methods could be employed. Scanning and analytical (transmission) electron microscopy are the logical choise for morphological, mineralogical, and bulk chemical analyses of dust grains removed from ices. It may also be possible to examine unmelted ice/dust mixtures using an environmental scanning electron microscope equipped with a cryo-transfer unit and a cold stage. Electron microscopic observations of comet nuclei might include: (1) porosities of dust grains; (2) morphologies and microstructures of individual mineral grains; (3) relative abundances of olivine, pyroxene, and glass; and (4) the presence of phases that might have resulted from aqueous alteration (layer silicates, carbonates, sulfates).

Microscopy with slow electrons: from LEEM to XPEEM

ScienceCinema

Bauer, Ernst [Arizona State University, Phoenix, Arizona, United States

2017-12-09

The short penetration and escape depth of electrons with energies below 1 keV make them ideally suited for the study of surfaces and ultrathin films. The combination of the low energy electrons and the high lateral resolution of a microscope produces a powerful method for the characterization of nanostructures on bulk samples, in particular if the microscope is equipped with an imaging energy filter and connected to a synchrotron radiation source. Comprehensive characterization by imaging, diffraction, and spectroscope of the structural, chemical, and magnetic properties is then possible. The Talk will describe the various imaging techniques in using reflected and emitted electrons in low-energy electron microscopy (LEEM) and x-ray photoemission electron microscopy (XPEEM), with an emphasis on magnetic materials with spin-polarized LEEM and x-ray magnetic circular dichroism PEEM. The talk with end with an outlook on future possibilities.

76 FR 65696 - Battelle Energy Alliance, et al.;

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-10-24

... of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712. Instrument: Electron Microscope. Manufacturer: FEI Company, the... research or scientific educational uses requiring an electron microscope. We know of no electron microscope...

Interpretation of scanning electron microscope measurements of minority carrier diffusion lengths in semiconductors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Flat, A.; Milnes, A. G.

1978-01-01

In scanning electron microscope (SEM) injection measurements of minority carrier diffusion lengths some uncertainties of interpretation exist when the response current is nonlinear with distance. This is significant in epitaxial layers where the layer thickness is not large in relation to the diffusion length, and where there are large surface recombination velocities on the incident and contact surfaces. An image method of analysis is presented for such specimens. A method of using the results to correct the observed response in a simple convenient way is presented. The technique is illustrated with reference to measurements in epitaxial layers of GaAs. Average beam penetration depth may also be estimated from the curve shape.

Electronic structure of polycrystalline CVD-graphene revealed by Nano-ARPES

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Chaoyu; Avila, José; Asensio, Maria C.

2017-06-01

The ability to explore electronic structure and their role in determining material’s macroscopic behaviour is essential to explain and engineer functions of material and device. Since its debut in 2004, graphene has attracted global research interest due to its unique properties. Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) has emerged as an important method for the massive preparation and production of graphene for various applications. Here by employing angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy with nanoscale spatial resolution ˜ 100 nm (Nano-ARPES), we describe the approach to measure the electronic structure of polycrystalline graphene on copper foils, demonstrating the power of Nano-ARPES to detect the electronic structure of microscopic single crystalline domains, being fully compatible with conventional ARPES. Similar analysis could be employed to other microscopic materials

Electron microscopy of whole cells in liquid with nanometer resolution

PubMed Central

de Jonge, N.; Peckys, D. B.; Kremers, G. J.; Piston, D. W.

2009-01-01

Single gold-tagged epidermal growth factor (EGF) molecules bound to cellular EGF receptors of fixed fibroblast cells were imaged in liquid with a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM). The cells were placed in buffer solution in a microfluidic device with electron transparent windows inside the vacuum of the electron microscope. A spatial resolution of 4 nm and a pixel dwell time of 20 μs were obtained. The liquid layer was sufficiently thick to contain the cells with a thickness of 7 ± 1 μm. The experimental findings are consistent with a theoretical calculation. Liquid STEM is a unique approach for imaging single molecules in whole cells with significantly improved resolution and imaging speed over existing methods. PMID:19164524

Ballistic-Electron-Emission Microscope

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaiser, William J.; Bell, L. Douglas

1990-01-01

Ballistic-electron-emission microscope (BEEM) employs scanning tunneling-microscopy (STM) methods for nondestructive, direct electrical investigation of buried interfaces, such as interface between semiconductor and thin metal film. In BEEM, there are at least three electrodes: emitting tip, biasing electrode, and collecting electrode, receiving current crossing interface under investigation. Signal-processing device amplifies electrode signals and converts them into form usable by computer. Produces spatial images of surface by scanning tip; in addition, provides high-resolution images of buried interface under investigation. Spectroscopic information extracted by measuring collecting-electrode current as function of one of interelectrode voltages.

Electron beam dynamics in an ultrafast transmission electron microscope with Wehnelt electrode.

PubMed

Bücker, K; Picher, M; Crégut, O; LaGrange, T; Reed, B W; Park, S T; Masiel, D J; Banhart, F

2016-12-01

High temporal resolution transmission electron microscopy techniques have shown significant progress in recent years. Using photoelectron pulses induced by ultrashort laser pulses on the cathode, these methods can probe ultrafast materials processes and have revealed numerous dynamic phenomena at the nanoscale. Most recently, the technique has been implemented in standard thermionic electron microscopes that provide a flexible platform for studying material's dynamics over a wide range of spatial and temporal scales. In this study, the electron pulses in such an ultrafast transmission electron microscope are characterized in detail. The microscope is based on a thermionic gun with a Wehnelt electrode and is operated in a stroboscopic photoelectron mode. It is shown that the Wehnelt bias has a decisive influence on the temporal and energy spread of the picosecond electron pulses. Depending on the shape of the cathode and the cathode-Wehnelt distance, different emission patterns with different pulse parameters are obtained. The energy spread of the pulses is determined by space charge and Boersch effects, given by the number of electrons in a pulse. However, filtering effects due to the chromatic aberrations of the Wehnelt electrode allow the extraction of pulses with narrow energy spreads. The temporal spread is governed by electron trajectories of different length and in different electrostatic potentials. High temporal resolution is obtained by excluding shank emission from the cathode and aberration-induced halos in the emission pattern. By varying the cathode-Wehnelt gap, the Wehnelt bias, and the number of photoelectrons in a pulse, tradeoffs between energy and temporal resolution as well as beam intensity can be made as needed for experiments. Based on the characterization of the electron pulses, the optimal conditions for the operation of ultrafast TEMs with thermionic gun assembly are elaborated. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Smart align -- A new tool for robust non-rigid registration of scanning microscope data

DOE PAGES

Jones, Lewys; Yang, Hao; Pennycook, Timothy J.; ...

2015-07-10

Many microscopic investigations of materials may benefit from the recording of multiple successive images. This can include techniques common to several types of microscopy such as frame averaging to improve signal-to-noise ratios (SNR) or time series to study dynamic processes or more specific applications. In the scanning transmission electron microscope, this might include focal series for optical sectioning or aberration measurement, beam damage studies or camera-length series to study the effects of strain; whilst in the scanning tunnelling microscope, this might include bias voltage series to probe local electronic structure. Whatever the application, such investigations must begin with the carefulmore » alignment of these data stacks, an operation that is not always trivial. In addition, the presence of low-frequency scanning distortions can introduce intra-image shifts to the data. Here, we describe an improved automated method of performing non-rigid registration customised for the challenges unique to scanned microscope data specifically addressing the issues of low-SNR data, images containing a large proportion of crystalline material and/or local features of interest such as dislocations or edges. Careful attention has been paid to artefact testing of the non-rigid registration method used, and the importance of this registration for the quantitative interpretation of feature intensities and positions is evaluated.« less

Smart align -- A new tool for robust non-rigid registration of scanning microscope data

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jones, Lewys; Yang, Hao; Pennycook, Timothy J.

Many microscopic investigations of materials may benefit from the recording of multiple successive images. This can include techniques common to several types of microscopy such as frame averaging to improve signal-to-noise ratios (SNR) or time series to study dynamic processes or more specific applications. In the scanning transmission electron microscope, this might include focal series for optical sectioning or aberration measurement, beam damage studies or camera-length series to study the effects of strain; whilst in the scanning tunnelling microscope, this might include bias voltage series to probe local electronic structure. Whatever the application, such investigations must begin with the carefulmore » alignment of these data stacks, an operation that is not always trivial. In addition, the presence of low-frequency scanning distortions can introduce intra-image shifts to the data. Here, we describe an improved automated method of performing non-rigid registration customised for the challenges unique to scanned microscope data specifically addressing the issues of low-SNR data, images containing a large proportion of crystalline material and/or local features of interest such as dislocations or edges. Careful attention has been paid to artefact testing of the non-rigid registration method used, and the importance of this registration for the quantitative interpretation of feature intensities and positions is evaluated.« less

In-situ integrity control of frozen-hydrated, vitreous lamellas prepared by the cryo-focused ion beam-scanning electron microscope.

PubMed

de Winter, D A Matthijs; Mesman, Rob J; Hayles, Michael F; Schneijdenberg, Chris T W M; Mathisen, Cliff; Post, Jan A

2013-07-01

Recently a number of new approaches have been presented with the intention to produce electron beam transparent cryo-sections (lamellas in FIB-SEM terminology) from hydrated vitreously frozen cryo samples with a Focused Ion Beam (FIB) system, suitable for cryo-Transmission Electron Microscopy (cryo-TEM). As the workflow is still challenging and time consuming, it is important to be able to determine the integrity and suitability (cells vs. no cells; vitreous vs. crystalline) of the lamellas. Here we present an in situ method that tests both conditions by using the cryo-Scanning Electron Microscope (cryo-SEM) in transmission mode (TSEM; Transmission Scanning Electron Microscope) once the FIB-made lamella is ready. Cryo-TSEM imaging of unstained cells yields strong contrast, enabling direct imaging of material present in the lamellas. In addition, orientation contrast is shown to be suitable for distinguishing crystalline lamellas from vitreous lamellas. Tilting the stage a few degrees results in changes of contrast between ice grains as a function of the tilt angle, whereas the contrast of areas with vitreous ice remains unchanged as a function of the tilt angle. This orientation contrast has subsequently been validated by cryo-Electron BackScattered Diffraction (EBSD) in transmission mode. Integration of the presented method is discussed and the role it can play in future developments for a new and innovative all-in-one cryo-FIB-SEM life sciences instrument. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Electron microscopic visualization of complementary labeled DNA with platinum-containing guanine derivative.

PubMed

Loukanov, Alexandre; Filipov, Chavdar; Mladenova, Polina; Toshev, Svetlin; Emin, Saim

2016-04-01

The object of the present report is to provide a method for a visualization of DNA in TEM by complementary labeling of cytosine with guanine derivative, which contains platinum as contrast-enhanced heavy element. The stretched single-chain DNA was obtained by modifying double-stranded DNA. The labeling method comprises the following steps: (i) stretching and adsorption of DNA on the support film of an electron microscope grid (the hydrophobic carbon film holding negative charged DNA); (ii) complementary labeling of the cytosine bases from the stretched single-stranded DNA pieces on the support film with platinum containing guanine derivative to form base-specific hydrogen bond; and (iii) producing a magnified image of the base-specific labeled DNA. Stretched single-stranded DNA on a support film is obtained by a rapid elongation of DNA pieces on the surface between air and aqueous buffer solution. The attached platinum-containing guanine derivative serves as a high-dense marker and it can be discriminated from the surrounding background of support carbon film and visualized by use of conventional TEM observation at 100 kV accelerated voltage. This method allows examination of specific nucleic macromolecules through atom-by-atom analysis and it is promising way toward future DNA-sequencing or molecular diagnostics of nucleic acids by electron microscopic observation. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Microscopic Electronic and Mechanical Properties of Ultra-Thin Layered Materials

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-07-25

Graphene single layers grown by chemical vapor deposition on single crystal Cu substrates are subject to nonuniform physisorption strains that...the observed highly nonuniform strains. 4. Connecting dopant bond type with electronic structure in N-doped graphene (reference [4]) Robust methods

Serial sectioning methods for 3D investigations in materials science.

PubMed

Zankel, Armin; Wagner, Julian; Poelt, Peter

2014-07-01

A variety of methods for the investigation and 3D representation of the inner structure of materials has been developed. In this paper, techniques based on slice and view using scanning microscopy for imaging are presented and compared. Three different methods of serial sectioning combined with either scanning electron or scanning ion microscopy or atomic force microscopy (AFM) were placed under scrutiny: serial block-face scanning electron microscopy, which facilitates an ultramicrotome built into the chamber of a variable pressure scanning electron microscope; three-dimensional (3D) AFM, which combines an (cryo-) ultramicrotome with an atomic force microscope, and 3D FIB, which delivers results by slicing with a focused ion beam. These three methods complement one another in many respects, e.g., in the type of materials that can be investigated, the resolution that can be obtained and the information that can be extracted from 3D reconstructions. A detailed review is given about preparation, the slice and view process itself, and the limitations of the methods and possible artifacts. Applications for each technique are also provided. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated in-chamber specimen coating for serial block-face electron microscopy.

PubMed

Titze, B; Denk, W

2013-05-01

When imaging insulating specimens in a scanning electron microscope, negative charge accumulates locally ('sample charging'). The resulting electric fields distort signal amplitude, focus and image geometry, which can be avoided by coating the specimen with a conductive film prior to introducing it into the microscope chamber. This, however, is incompatible with serial block-face electron microscopy (SBEM), where imaging and surface removal cycles (by diamond knife or focused ion beam) alternate, with the sample remaining in place. Here we show that coating the sample after each cutting cycle with a 1-2 nm metallic film, using an electron beam evaporator that is integrated into the microscope chamber, eliminates charging effects for both backscattered (BSE) and secondary electron (SE) imaging. The reduction in signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) caused by the film is smaller than that caused by the widely used low-vacuum method. Sample surfaces as large as 12 mm across were coated and imaged without charging effects at beam currents as high as 25 nA. The coatings also enabled the use of beam deceleration for non-conducting samples, leading to substantial SNR gains for BSE contrast. We modified and automated the evaporator to enable the acquisition of SBEM stacks, and demonstrated the acquisition of stacks of over 1000 successive cut/coat/image cycles and of stacks using beam deceleration or SE contrast. © 2013 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2013 Royal Microscopical Society.

Focal depth measurement of scanning helium ion microscope

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Guo, Hongxuan, E-mail: Guo.hongxuan@nims.go.jp; Itoh, Hiroshi; Wang, Chunmei

2014-07-14

When facing the challenges of critical dimension measurement of complicated nanostructures, such as of the three dimension integrated circuit, characterization of the focal depth of microscopes is important. In this Letter, we developed a method for characterizing the focal depth of a scanning helium ion microscope (HIM) by using an atomic force microscope tip characterizer (ATC). The ATC was tilted in a sample chamber at an angle to the scanning plan. Secondary electron images (SEIs) were obtained at different positions of the ATC. The edge resolution of the SEIs shows the nominal diameters of the helium ion beam at differentmore » focal levels. With this method, the nominal shapes of the helium ion beams were obtained with different apertures. Our results show that a small aperture is necessary to get a high spatial resolution and high depth of field images with HIM. This work provides a method for characterizing and improving the performance of HIM.« less

Focal depth measurement of scanning helium ion microscope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Hongxuan; Itoh, Hiroshi; Wang, Chunmei; Zhang, Han; Fujita, Daisuke

2014-07-01

When facing the challenges of critical dimension measurement of complicated nanostructures, such as of the three dimension integrated circuit, characterization of the focal depth of microscopes is important. In this Letter, we developed a method for characterizing the focal depth of a scanning helium ion microscope (HIM) by using an atomic force microscope tip characterizer (ATC). The ATC was tilted in a sample chamber at an angle to the scanning plan. Secondary electron images (SEIs) were obtained at different positions of the ATC. The edge resolution of the SEIs shows the nominal diameters of the helium ion beam at different focal levels. With this method, the nominal shapes of the helium ion beams were obtained with different apertures. Our results show that a small aperture is necessary to get a high spatial resolution and high depth of field images with HIM. This work provides a method for characterizing and improving the performance of HIM.

Zernike phase-contrast electron cryotomography applied to marine cyanobacteria infected with cyanophages.

PubMed

Dai, Wei; Fu, Caroline; Khant, Htet A; Ludtke, Steven J; Schmid, Michael F; Chiu, Wah

2014-11-01

Advances in electron cryotomography have provided new opportunities to visualize the internal 3D structures of a bacterium. An electron microscope equipped with Zernike phase-contrast optics produces images with markedly increased contrast compared with images obtained by conventional electron microscopy. Here we describe a protocol to apply Zernike phase plate technology for acquiring electron tomographic tilt series of cyanophage-infected cyanobacterial cells embedded in ice, without staining or chemical fixation. We detail the procedures for aligning and assessing phase plates for data collection, and methods for obtaining 3D structures of cyanophage assembly intermediates in the host by subtomogram alignment, classification and averaging. Acquiring three or four tomographic tilt series takes ∼12 h on a JEM2200FS electron microscope. We expect this time requirement to decrease substantially as the technique matures. The time required for annotation and subtomogram averaging varies widely depending on the project goals and data volume.

Quasi-parallel precession diffraction: Alignment method for scanning transmission electron microscopes.

PubMed

Plana-Ruiz, S; Portillo, J; Estradé, S; Peiró, F; Kolb, Ute; Nicolopoulos, S

2018-06-06

A general method to set illuminating conditions for selectable beam convergence and probe size is presented in this work for Transmission Electron Microscopes (TEM) fitted with µs/pixel fast beam scanning control, (S)TEM, and an annular dark field detector. The case of interest of beam convergence and probe size, which enables diffraction pattern indexation, is then used as a starting point in this work to add 100 Hz precession to the beam while imaging the specimen at a fast rate and keeping the projector system in diffraction mode. The described systematic alignment method for the adjustment of beam precession on the specimen plane while scanning at fast rates is mainly based on the sharpness of the precessed STEM image. The complete alignment method for parallel condition and precession, Quasi-Parallel PED-STEM, is presented in block diagram scheme, as it has been tested on a variety of instruments. The immediate application of this methodology is that it renders the TEM column ready for the acquisition of Precessed Electron Diffraction Tomographies (EDT) as well as for the acquisition of slow Precessed Scanning Nanometer Electron Diffraction (SNED). Examples of the quality of the Precessed Electron Diffraction (PED) patterns and PED-STEM alignment images are presented with corresponding probe sizes and convergence angles. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

The correlation between acoustic and magnetic properties in the long working metal boiler drum with the parameters of the electron microscope

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ababkov, Nikolai, E-mail: n.ababkov@rambler.ru; Smirnov, Alexander, E-mail: galvas.kem@gmail.com

The present paper presents comparative analysis of measurement results of acoustic and magnetic properties in long working metal of boiler drums and the results obtained by methods of electronic microscopy. The structure of the metal sample from the fracture zone to the base metal (metal working sample long) and the center of the base metal before welding (weld metal sample) was investigated by electron microscopy. Studies performed by spectral acoustic, magnetic noise and electron microscopic methods were conducted on the same plots and the same samples of long working and weld metal of high-pressure boiler drums. The analysis of researchmore » results showed high sensitivity of spectral-acoustic and magnetic-noise methods to definition changes of microstructure parameters. Practical application of spectral-acoustic and magnetic noise NDT method is possible for the detection of irregularities and changes in structural and phase state of the long working and weld metal of boiler drums, made of a special molybdenum steel (such as 20M). The above technique can be used to evaluate the structure and physical-mechanical properties of the long working metal of boiler drums in the energy sector.« less

Electronic holographic moire in the micron range

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sciammarella, Cesar A.; Sciammarella, Federico M.

2001-06-01

The basic theory behind microscopic electronic holographic moire is presented. Conditions of observation are discussed, and optimal parameters are established. An application is presented as an example where experimental result are statistically analyzed and successfully correlated with an independent method of measurement of the same quantity.

Morphological changes of the hair roots in alopecia areata: a scanning electron microscopic study.

PubMed

Karashima, Tadashi; Tsuruta, Daisuke; Hamada, Takahiro; Ishii, Norito; Ono, Fumitake; Ueda, Akihiro; Abe, Toshifumi; Nakama, Takekuni; Dainichi, Teruki; Hashimoto, Takashi

2013-12-01

Alopecia areata is a chronic inflammatory condition causing non-scarring patchy hair loss. Diagnosis of alopecia areata is made by clinical observations, hair pluck test and dermoscopic signs. However, because differentiation from other alopecia diseases is occasionally difficult, an invasive diagnostic method using a punch biopsy is performed. In this study, to develop a reliable, less invasive diagnostic method for alopecia areata, we performed scanning electron microscopy of the hair roots of alopecia areata patients. This study identified four patterns of hair morphology specific to alopecia areata: (I) long tapering structure with no accumulation of scales; (II) club-shaped hair root with fine scales; (III) proximal accumulation of scales; and (IV) sharp tapering of the proximal end of hair. On the basis of these results, we can distinguish alopecia areata by scanning electron microscopic observation of the proximal end of the hair shafts. © 2013 Japanese Dermatological Association.

A scanning electron microscope technique for studying the sclerites of Cichlidogyrus.

PubMed

Fannes, Wouter; Vanhove, Maarten P M; Huyse, Tine; Paladini, Giuseppe

2015-05-01

The genus Cichlidogyrus (Monogenea: Ancyrocephalidae) includes more than 90 species, most of which are gill parasites of African cichlid fishes. Cichlidogyrus has been studied extensively in recent years, but scanning electron microscope (SEM) investigations of the isolated hard parts have not yet been undertaken. In this paper, we describe a method for isolating and scanning the sclerites of individual Cichlidogyrus worms. Twenty-year-old, formol-fixed specimens of Cichlidogyrus casuarinus were subjected to proteinase K digestion in order to release the sclerites from the surrounding soft tissues. SEM micrographs of the haptoral sclerites and the male copulatory organ are presented. The ability to digest formol-fixed specimens makes this method a useful tool for the study of historical museum collections.

Some observations on glass-knife making.

PubMed

Ward, R T

1977-11-01

The yield of usable knife edge per knife (for thin sectioning) was markedly increased when glass knives were made at an included angle of 55 degrees rather than the customary 45 degrees. A large number of measurements of edge check marks made with a routine light scattering method as well as observations made on a smaller number of test sections with the electron microscope indicated the superiority of 55 degrees knives. Knives were made with both taped pliers and an LKB Knifemaker. Knives were graded by methods easily applied in any biological electron microscope laboratory. Depending on the mode of fracture, the yield of knives having more than 33% of their edges free of check marks was 30 to 100 times greater at 55 degrees than 45 degrees.

On-line transmission electron microscopic image analysis of chromatin texture for differentiation of thyroid gland tumors.

PubMed

Kriete, A; Schäffer, R; Harms, H; Aus, H M

1987-06-01

Nuclei of the cells from the thyroid gland were analyzed in a transmission electron microscope by direct TV scanning and on-line image processing. The method uses the advantages of a visual-perception model to detect structures in noisy and low-contrast images. The features analyzed include area, a form factor and texture parameters from the second derivative stage. Three tumor-free thyroid tissues, three follicular adenomas, three follicular carcinomas and three papillary carcinomas were studied. The computer-aided cytophotometric method showed that the most significant differences were the statistics of the chromatin texture features of homogeneity and regularity. These findings document the possibility of an automated differentiation of tumors at the ultrastructural level.

Electron microscopy methods in studies of cultural heritage sites

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Vasiliev, A. L., E-mail: a.vasiliev56@gmail.com; Kovalchuk, M. V.; Yatsishina, E. B.

The history of the development and application of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDXMA) in studies of cultural heritage sites is considered. In fact, investigations based on these methods began when electron microscopes became a commercial product. Currently, these methods, being developed and improved, help solve many historical enigmas. To date, electron microscopy combined with microanalysis makes it possible to investigate any object, from parchment and wooden articles to pigments, tools, and objects of art. Studies by these methods have revealed that some articles were made by ancient masters using ancient “nanotechnologies”; hence,more » their comprehensive analysis calls for the latest achievements in the corresponding instrumental methods and sample preparation techniques.« less

Electron microscopy methods in studies of cultural heritage sites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vasiliev, A. L.; Kovalchuk, M. V.; Yatsishina, E. B.

2016-11-01

The history of the development and application of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDXMA) in studies of cultural heritage sites is considered. In fact, investigations based on these methods began when electron microscopes became a commercial product. Currently, these methods, being developed and improved, help solve many historical enigmas. To date, electron microscopy combined with microanalysis makes it possible to investigate any object, from parchment and wooden articles to pigments, tools, and objects of art. Studies by these methods have revealed that some articles were made by ancient masters using ancient "nanotechnologies"; hence, their comprehensive analysis calls for the latest achievements in the corresponding instrumental methods and sample preparation techniques.

Orientation and phase mapping in the transmission electron microscope using precession-assisted diffraction spot recognition: state-of-the-art results.

PubMed

Viladot, D; Véron, M; Gemmi, M; Peiró, F; Portillo, J; Estradé, S; Mendoza, J; Llorca-Isern, N; Nicolopoulos, S

2013-10-01

A recently developed technique based on the transmission electron microscope, which makes use of electron beam precession together with spot diffraction pattern recognition now offers the possibility to acquire reliable orientation/phase maps with a spatial resolution down to 2 nm on a field emission gun transmission electron microscope. The technique may be described as precession-assisted crystal orientation mapping in the transmission electron microscope, precession-assisted crystal orientation mapping technique-transmission electron microscope, also known by its product name, ASTAR, and consists in scanning the precessed electron beam in nanoprobe mode over the specimen area, thus producing a collection of precession electron diffraction spot patterns, to be thereafter indexed automatically through template matching. We present a review on several application examples relative to the characterization of microstructure/microtexture of nanocrystalline metals, ceramics, nanoparticles, minerals and organics. The strengths and limitations of the technique are also discussed using several application examples. ©2013 The Authors. Journal of Microscopy published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Royal Microscopical Society.

Scanning electron microscope image signal-to-noise ratio monitoring for micro-nanomanipulation.

PubMed

Marturi, Naresh; Dembélé, Sounkalo; Piat, Nadine

2014-01-01

As an imaging system, scanning electron microscope (SEM) performs an important role in autonomous micro-nanomanipulation applications. When it comes to the sub micrometer range and at high scanning speeds, the images produced by the SEM are noisy and need to be evaluated or corrected beforehand. In this article, the quality of images produced by a tungsten gun SEM has been evaluated by quantifying the level of image signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). In order to determine the SNR, an efficient and online monitoring method is developed based on the nonlinear filtering using a single image. Using this method, the quality of images produced by a tungsten gun SEM is monitored at different experimental conditions. The derived results demonstrate the developed method's efficiency in SNR quantification and illustrate the imaging quality evolution in SEM. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Three-dimensional reconstruction of highly complex microscopic samples using scanning electron microscopy and optical flow estimation.

PubMed

Baghaie, Ahmadreza; Pahlavan Tafti, Ahmad; Owen, Heather A; D'Souza, Roshan M; Yu, Zeyun

2017-01-01

Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) as one of the major research and industrial equipment for imaging of micro-scale samples and surfaces has gained extensive attention from its emerge. However, the acquired micrographs still remain two-dimensional (2D). In the current work a novel and highly accurate approach is proposed to recover the hidden third-dimension by use of multi-view image acquisition of the microscopic samples combined with pre/post-processing steps including sparse feature-based stereo rectification, nonlocal-based optical flow estimation for dense matching and finally depth estimation. Employing the proposed approach, three-dimensional (3D) reconstructions of highly complex microscopic samples were achieved to facilitate the interpretation of topology and geometry of surface/shape attributes of the samples. As a byproduct of the proposed approach, high-definition 3D printed models of the samples can be generated as a tangible means of physical understanding. Extensive comparisons with the state-of-the-art reveal the strength and superiority of the proposed method in uncovering the details of the highly complex microscopic samples.

In-situ measurement of objective lens data of a high-resolution electron microscope.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Heinemann, K.

1971-01-01

Bragg-reflex images of small individual crystallites in the size range of 20-100 A diameter with known crystallographic orientation were used in a transmission electron microscope to determine in-situ: (a) the relationship between objective lens current (or accelerating voltage) changes in discrete steps and corresponding defocus, (b) the spherical aberration coefficient, and (c) the axial chromatic aberration coefficient of the objective lens. The accuracy of the described method is better than 5%. The same specimen can advantageously be used to properly aline the illuminating beam with respect to the optical axis.

Diffusion length measurement using the scanning electron microscope. [for silicon solar cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Weizer, V. G.

1975-01-01

The present work describes a measuring technique employing the scanning electron microscope in which values of the true bulk diffusion length are obtained. It is shown that surface recombination effects can be eliminated through application of highly doped surface field layers. The effects of high injection level and low-high junction current generation are investigated. Results obtained with this technique are compared to those obtained by a penetrating radiation (X-ray) method, and a close agreement is found. The SEM technique is limited to cells that contain a back surface field layer.

Helium Ion Secondary Electron Mode Microscopy For Interconnect Material Imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ogawa, Shinichi; Thompson, William; Stern, Lewis; Scipioni, Larry; Notte, John; Farkas, Lou; Barriss, Louise

2010-04-01

The recently developed helium ion microscope (HIM) is now capable of 0.35 nm secondary electron (SE) mode image resolution. When low-k dielectrics or copper interconnects in ultra large scale integrated circuits (ULSI) interconnect structures were imaged in this mode, it was found that unique pattern dimension and fidelity information at sub-nanometer resolution was available for the first time. This paper will discuss the helium ion microscope architecture and the SE imaging techniques that make the HIM observation method of particular value to the low-k dielectric and dual damascene copper interconnect technologies.

High-resolution, high-throughput imaging with a multibeam scanning electron microscope.

PubMed

Eberle, A L; Mikula, S; Schalek, R; Lichtman, J; Knothe Tate, M L; Zeidler, D

2015-08-01

Electron-electron interactions and detector bandwidth limit the maximal imaging speed of single-beam scanning electron microscopes. We use multiple electron beams in a single column and detect secondary electrons in parallel to increase the imaging speed by close to two orders of magnitude and demonstrate imaging for a variety of samples ranging from biological brain tissue to semiconductor wafers. © 2015 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2015 Royal Microscopical Society.

Designs for a quantum electron microscope.

PubMed

Kruit, P; Hobbs, R G; Kim, C-S; Yang, Y; Manfrinato, V R; Hammer, J; Thomas, S; Weber, P; Klopfer, B; Kohstall, C; Juffmann, T; Kasevich, M A; Hommelhoff, P; Berggren, K K

2016-05-01

One of the astounding consequences of quantum mechanics is that it allows the detection of a target using an incident probe, with only a low probability of interaction of the probe and the target. This 'quantum weirdness' could be applied in the field of electron microscopy to generate images of beam-sensitive specimens with substantially reduced damage to the specimen. A reduction of beam-induced damage to specimens is especially of great importance if it can enable imaging of biological specimens with atomic resolution. Following a recent suggestion that interaction-free measurements are possible with electrons, we now analyze the difficulties of actually building an atomic resolution interaction-free electron microscope, or "quantum electron microscope". A quantum electron microscope would require a number of unique components not found in conventional transmission electron microscopes. These components include a coherent electron beam-splitter or two-state-coupler, and a resonator structure to allow each electron to interrogate the specimen multiple times, thus supporting high success probabilities for interaction-free detection of the specimen. Different system designs are presented here, which are based on four different choices of two-state-couplers: a thin crystal, a grating mirror, a standing light wave and an electro-dynamical pseudopotential. Challenges for the detailed electron optical design are identified as future directions for development. While it is concluded that it should be possible to build an atomic resolution quantum electron microscope, we have also identified a number of hurdles to the development of such a microscope and further theoretical investigations that will be required to enable a complete interpretation of the images produced by such a microscope. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Investigation of Microstructural Features Determining the Toughness of 980 MPa Bainitic Weld Metal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, R.; Zhang, X. B.; Wang, Z.; Peng, Y.; Du, W. S.; Tian, Z. L.; Chen, J. H.

2014-02-01

The microstructural features that control the impact toughness of weld metals of a 980 MPa 8 pct Ni high-strength steel are investigated using instrumented Charpy V tester, optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), electron back-scattered diffraction (EBSD), and finite-element method (FEM) calculation. The results show that the critical event for cleavage fracture in this high-strength steel and weld metals is the propagation of a bainite packet-sized crack across the packet boundary into contiguous packets, and the bainitic packet sizes control the impact toughness. The high-angle misorientation boundaries detected in a bainite packet by EBSD form fine tear ridges on fracture surfaces. However, they are not the decisive factors controlling the cleavage fracture. The effects of Ni content are essential factors for improving the toughness. The extra large cleavage facets seriously deteriorate the toughness, which are formed on the interfaces of large columnar crystals growing in welding pools with high heat input.

Use of reciprocal lattice layer spacing in electron backscatter diffraction pattern analysis

PubMed

Michael; Eades

2000-03-01

In the scanning electron microscope using electron backscattered diffraction, it is possible to measure the spacing of the layers in the reciprocal lattice. These values are of great use in confirming the identification of phases. The technique derives the layer spacing from the higher-order Laue zone rings which appear in patterns from many materials. The method adapts results from convergent-beam electron diffraction in the transmission electron microscope. For many materials the measured layer spacing compares well with the calculated layer spacing. A noted exception is for higher atomic number materials. In these cases an extrapolation procedure is described that requires layer spacing measurements at a range of accelerating voltages. This procedure is shown to improve the accuracy of the technique significantly. The application of layer spacing measurements in EBSD is shown to be of use for the analysis of two polytypes of SiC.

Nondestructive determination of the depth of planar p-n junctions by scanning electron microscopy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chi, J.-Y.; Gatos, H. C.

1977-01-01

A method was developed for measuring nondestructively the depth of planar p-n junctions in simple devices as well as in integrated-circuit structures with the electron-beam induced current (EBIC) by scanning parallel to the junction in a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results were found to be in good agreement with those obtained by the commonly used destructive method of lapping at an angle to the junction and staining to reveal the junction.

[Electron microscopic study of the An-750 strain of Powassan virus isolated in the Soviet Union].

PubMed

Sobolev, S G; Shestopalova, N M; Linev, M B; Rubin, S G

1978-01-01

Electron microscopic examinations of brains of white mice inoculated with the An 750 strain isolated for the first time from adult mosquitoes and with the prototype LB strain of Powassan virus were carried out. The method of combination of light and electron microscopy used in the study permitted to compare ultrastructural changes in one cell with the results of light microscopy. Sizes of virions and their localizations in the brain cells were determined. Virus particles were found in large and small neurons as well as in glial elements. Subcellular changes in neurons associated with virus multiplication are described. The causes of differences in sizes of virions measured in ultrathin sections are discussed.

Sparse sampling and reconstruction for electron and scanning probe microscope imaging

DOEpatents

Anderson, Hyrum; Helms, Jovana; Wheeler, Jason W.; Larson, Kurt W.; Rohrer, Brandon R.

2015-07-28

Systems and methods for conducting electron or scanning probe microscopy are provided herein. In a general embodiment, the systems and methods for conducting electron or scanning probe microscopy with an undersampled data set include: driving an electron beam or probe to scan across a sample and visit a subset of pixel locations of the sample that are randomly or pseudo-randomly designated; determining actual pixel locations on the sample that are visited by the electron beam or probe; and processing data collected by detectors from the visits of the electron beam or probe at the actual pixel locations and recovering a reconstructed image of the sample.

75 FR 13486 - Application(s) for Duty-Free Entry of Scientific Instruments

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The Design and Construction of a Simple Transmission Electron Microscope for Educational Purposes.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hearsey, Paul K.

This document presents a model for a simple transmission electron microscope for educational purposes. This microscope could demonstrate thermonic emission, particle acceleration, electron deflection, and flourescence. It is designed to be used in high school science courses, particularly physics, taking into account the size, weight, complexity…

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Secondary electron imaging of monolayer materials inside a transmission electron microscope

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cretu, Ovidiu, E-mail: cretu.ovidiu@nims.go.jp; Lin, Yung-Chang; Suenaga, Kazutomo

2015-08-10

A scanning transmission electron microscope equipped with a backscattered and secondary electron detector is shown capable to image graphene and hexagonal boron nitride monolayers. Secondary electron contrasts of the two lightest monolayer materials are clearly distinguished from the vacuum level. A signal difference between these two materials is attributed to electronic structure differences, which will influence the escape probabilities of the secondary electrons. Our results show that the secondary electron signal can be used to distinguish between the electronic structures of materials with atomic layer sensitivity, enhancing its applicability as a complementary signal in the analytical microscope.

New Developments in Cathodoluminescence Spectroscopy for the Study of Luminescent Materials

PubMed Central

den Engelsen, Daniel; Fern, George R.; Harris, Paul G.; Ireland, Terry G.; Silver, Jack

2017-01-01

Herein, we describe three advanced techniques for cathodoluminescence (CL) spectroscopy that have recently been developed in our laboratories. The first is a new method to accurately determine the CL-efficiency of thin layers of phosphor powders. When a wide band phosphor with a band gap (Eg > 5 eV) is bombarded with electrons, charging of the phosphor particles will occur, which eventually leads to erroneous results in the determination of the luminous efficacy. To overcome this problem of charging, a comparison method has been developed, which enables accurate measurement of the current density of the electron beam. The study of CL from phosphor specimens in a scanning electron microscope (SEM) is the second subject to be treated. A detailed description of a measuring method to determine the overall decay time of single phosphor crystals in a SEM without beam blanking is presented. The third technique is based on the unique combination of microscopy and spectrometry in the transmission electron microscope (TEM) of Brunel University London (UK). This combination enables the recording of CL-spectra of nanometre-sized specimens and determining spatial variations in CL emission across individual particles by superimposing the scanning TEM and CL-images. PMID:28772671

Integration of a high-NA light microscope in a scanning electron microscope.

PubMed

Zonnevylle, A C; Van Tol, R F C; Liv, N; Narvaez, A C; Effting, A P J; Kruit, P; Hoogenboom, J P

2013-10-01

We present an integrated light-electron microscope in which an inverted high-NA objective lens is positioned inside a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The SEM objective lens and the light objective lens have a common axis and focal plane, allowing high-resolution optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy on the same area of a sample simultaneously. Components for light illumination and detection can be mounted outside the vacuum, enabling flexibility in the construction of the light microscope. The light objective lens can be positioned underneath the SEM objective lens during operation for sub-10 μm alignment of the fields of view of the light and electron microscopes. We demonstrate in situ epifluorescence microscopy in the SEM with a numerical aperture of 1.4 using vacuum-compatible immersion oil. For a 40-nm-diameter fluorescent polymer nanoparticle, an intensity profile with a FWHM of 380 nm is measured whereas the SEM performance is uncompromised. The integrated instrument may offer new possibilities for correlative light and electron microscopy in the life sciences as well as in physics and chemistry. © 2013 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2013 Royal Microscopical Society.

ELECTRON MICROSCOPIC LOCALIZATION OF ACETYLCHOLINESTERASE AND NONSPECIFIC CHOLINESTERASE AT THE NEUROMUSCULAR JUNCTION BY THE GOLD-THIOCHOLINE AND GOLD-THIOLACETIC ACID METHODS

PubMed Central

Davis, Richard; Koelle, George B.

1967-01-01

By means of the gold-thiocholine (AuThCh) and gold-thiolacetic acid (AuThAc) methods, it has been demonstrated electron microscopically that acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is located at the prejunctional axoplasmic membrane and the postjunctional sarcoplasmic membrane, including the full lengths of its invaginations, at the motor end plate of mouse intercostal muscle. Nonspecific cholinesterase (ChE) is present in relatively low concentrations at the same sites, and in greater concentrations in the teloglial Schwann sheath cells. Significant amounts of reaction product appeared in the junctional cleft only after prolonged incubation with both methods. The identification of AChE and ChE was confirmed by the use of appropriate concentrations of several selective inhibitors. In confirmation of previous studies by light microscopy, the AuThCh method is more specific for AChE and ChE, whereas the AuThAc method allows greater accuracy of localization. PMID:6033530

Length measurement and spatial orientation reconstruction of single nanowires.

PubMed

Prestopino, Giuseppe; Orsini, Andrea; Falconi, Christian; Bietti, Sergio; Verona-Rinati, Gianluca; Caselli, Federica; Bisegna, Paolo

2018-06-27

The accurate determination of the geometrical features of quasi one-dimensional nanostructures is mandatory for reducing errors and improving repeatability in the estimation of a number of geometry-dependent properties in nanotechnology. In this paper a method for the reconstruction of length and spatial orientation of single nanowires is presented. Those quantities are calculated from a sequence of scanning electron microscope images taken at different tilt angles using a simple 3D geometric model. The proposed method is evaluated on a collection of scanning electron microscope images of single GaAs nanowires. It is validated through the reconstruction of known geometric features of a standard reference calibration pattern. An overall uncertainty of about 1% in the estimated length of the nanowires is achieved. © 2018 IOP Publishing Ltd.

Line-edge quality optimization of electron beam resist for high-throughput character projection exposure utilizing atomic force microscope analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ikeno, Rimon; Mita, Yoshio; Asada, Kunihiro

2017-04-01

High-throughput electron-beam lithography (EBL) by character projection (CP) and variable-shaped beam (VSB) methods is a promising technique for low-to-medium volume device fabrication with regularly arranged layouts, such as standard-cell logics and memory arrays. However, non-VLSI applications like MEMS and MOEMS may not fully utilize the benefits of CP method due to their wide variety of layout figures including curved and oblique edges. In addition, the stepwise shapes that appear on such irregular edges by VSB exposure often result in intolerable edge roughness, which may degrade performances of the fabricated devices. In our former study, we proposed a general EBL methodology for such applications utilizing a combination of CP and VSB methods, and demonstrated its capabilities in electron beam (EB) shot reduction and edge-quality improvement by using a leading-edge EB exposure tool, ADVANTEST F7000S-VD02, and high-resolution Hydrogen Silsesquioxane resist. Both scanning electron microscope and atomic force microscope observations were used to analyze quality of the resist edge profiles to determine the influence of the control parameters used in the exposure-data preparation process. In this study, we carried out detailed analysis of the captured edge profiles utilizing Fourier analysis, and successfully distinguish the systematic undulation by the exposed CP character profiles from random roughness components. Such capability of precise edge-roughness analysis is useful to our EBL methodology to maintain both the line-edge quality and the exposure throughput by optimizing the control parameters in the layout data conversion.

Atmospheric scanning electron microscope observes cells and tissues in open medium through silicon nitride film.

PubMed

Nishiyama, Hidetoshi; Suga, Mitsuo; Ogura, Toshihiko; Maruyama, Yuusuke; Koizumi, Mitsuru; Mio, Kazuhiro; Kitamura, Shinichi; Sato, Chikara

2010-03-01

Direct observation of subcellular structures and their characterization is essential for understanding their physiological functions. To observe them in open environment, we have developed an inverted scanning electron microscope with a detachable, open-culture dish, capable of 8 nm resolution, and combined with a fluorescence microscope quasi-simultaneously observing the same area from the top. For scanning electron microscopy from the bottom, a silicon nitride film window in the base of the dish maintains a vacuum between electron gun and open sample dish while allowing electrons to pass through. Electrons are backscattered from the sample and captured by a detector under the dish. Cells cultured on the open dish can be externally manipulated under optical microscopy, fixed, and observed using scanning electron microscopy. Once fine structures have been revealed by scanning electron microscopy, their component proteins may be identified by comparison with separately prepared fluorescence-labeled optical microscopic images of the candidate proteins, with their heavy-metal-labeled or stained ASEM images. Furthermore, cell nuclei in a tissue block stained with platinum-blue were successfully observed without thin-sectioning, which suggests the applicability of this inverted scanning electron microscope to cancer diagnosis. This microscope visualizes mesoscopic-scale structures, and is also applicable to non-bioscience fields including polymer chemistry. (c) 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The effect of immersion time to low carbon steel hardness and microstructure with hot dip galvanizing coating method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hakim, A. A.; Rajagukguk, T. O.; Sumardi, S.

2018-01-01

Along with developing necessities of metal materials, these rise demands of quality improvements and material protections especially the mechanical properties of the material. This research used hot dip galvanizing coating method. The objectives of this research were to find out Rockwell hardness (HRb), layer thickness, micro structure and observation with Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) from result of coating by using Hot Dip Galvanizing coating method with immersion time of 3, 6, 9, and 12 minutes at 460°C. The result shows that Highest Rockwell hardness test (HRb) was at 3 minutes immersion time with 76.012 HRb. Highest thickness result was 217.3 μm at 12 minutes immersion. Microstructure test result showed that coating was formed at eta, zeta, delta and gamma phases, while Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) showed Fe, Zn, Mn, Si and S elements at the specimens after coating.

Synthesis and characterization of silver-copper core-shell nanoparticles using polyol method for antimicrobial agent

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hikmah, N.; Idrus, N. F.; Jai, J.; Hadi, A.

2016-06-01

Silver and copper nanoparticles are well-known as the good antimicrobial agent. The nano-size of particles influences in enhancing the antimicrobial activity. This paper discusses the effect of molarity on the microstructure and morphology of silver-copper core-shell nanoparticles prepared by a polyol method. In this study, silver-copper nanoparticles are synthesized through the green approach of polyol method using ethylene glycol (EG) as green solvent and reductant, and polyoxyethylene-(80)-sorbitan monooleate (Tween 80) as a nontoxic stabilizer. The phase and morphology of silver-copper nanoparticles are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and Transmission electron microscope (TEM). The results XRD confirm the pure crystalline of silver and copper nanoparticles with face-centered cubic (FCC) structure. FESEM and TEM analysis confirm the existence of Ag and Cu nanoparticles in core-shell shape.

Extremely thin layer plastification for focused-ion beam scanning electron microscopy: an improved method to study cell surfaces and organelles of cultured cells.

PubMed

VAN Donselaar, E G; Dorresteijn, B; Popov-Čeleketić, D; VAN DE Wetering, W J; Verrips, T C; Boekhout, T; Schneijdenberg, C T W M; Xenaki, A T; VAN DER Krift, T P; Müller, W H

2018-03-25

Since the recent boost in the usage of electron microscopy in life-science research, there is a great need for new methods. Recently minimal resin embedding methods have been successfully introduced in the sample preparation for focused-ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM). In these methods several possibilities are given to remove as much resin as possible from the surface of cultured cells or multicellular organisms. Here we introduce an alternative way in the minimal resin embedding method to remove excess of resin from two widely different cell types by the use of Mascotte filter paper. Our goal in correlative light and electron microscopic studies of immunogold-labelled breast cancer SKBR3 cells was to visualise gold-labelled HER2 plasma membrane proteins as well as the intracellular structures of flat and round cells. We found a significant difference (p < 0.001) in the number of gold particles of selected cells per 0.6 μm 2 cell surface: on average a flat cell contained 2.46 ± 1.98 gold particles, and a round cell 5.66 ± 2.92 gold particles. Moreover, there was a clear difference in the subcellular organisation of these two cells. The round SKBR3 cell contained many organelles, such as mitochondria, Golgi and endoplasmic reticulum, when compared with flat SKBR3 cells. Our next goal was to visualise crosswall associated organelles, septal pore caps, of Rhizoctonia solani fungal cells by the combined use of a heavy metal staining and our extremely thin layer plastification (ETLP) method. At low magnifications this resulted into easily finding septa which appeared as bright crosswalls in the back-scattered electron mode in the scanning electron microscope. Then, a septum was selected for FIB-SEM. Cross-sectioned views clearly revealed the perforate septal pore cap of R. solani next to other structures, such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, lipid bodies, dolipore septum, and the pore channel. As the ETLP method was applied on two widely different cell types, the use of the ETLP method will be beneficial to correlative studies of other cell model systems and multicellular organisms. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Microscopy published by JohnWiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Royal Microscopical Society.

Theoretical Study of tip apex electronic structure in Scanning Tunneling Microscope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choi, Heesung; Huang, Min; Randall, John; Cho, Kyeongjae

2011-03-01

Scanning Tunneling Microscope (STM) has been widely used to explore diverse surface properties with an atomic resolution, and STM tip has played a critical role in controlling surface structures. However, detailed information of atomic and electronic structure of STM tip and the fundamental understanding of STM images are still incomplete. Therefore, it is important to develop a comprehensive understanding of the electronic structure of STM tip. We have studied the atomic and electronic structures of STM tip with various transition metals (TMs) by DFT method. The d-electrons of TM tip apex atoms show different orbital states near the Fermi level. We will present comprehensive data of STM tips from our DFT calculation. Verified quantification of the tip electronic structures will lead to fundamental understanding of STM tip structure-property relationship. This work is supported by the DARPA TBN Program and the Texas ETF. DARPA Tip Based Nanofabrication Program and the Emerging Technology Fund of the State of Texas.

Zernike Phase Contrast Electron Cryo-Tomography Applied to Marine Cyanobacteria Infected with Cyanophages

PubMed Central

Dai, Wei; Fu, Caroline; Khant, Htet A.; Ludtke, Steven J.; Schmid, Michael F.; Chiu, Wah

2015-01-01

Advances in electron cryo-tomography have provided a new opportunity to visualize the internal 3D structures of a bacterium. An electron microscope equipped with Zernike phase contrast optics produces images with dramatically increased contrast compared to images obtained by conventional electron microscopy. Here we describe a protocol to apply Zernike phase plate technology for acquiring electron tomographic tilt series of cyanophage-infected cyanobacterial cells embedded in ice, without staining or chemical fixation. We detail the procedures for aligning and assessing phase plates for data collection, and methods to obtain 3D structures of cyanophage assembly intermediates in the host, by subtomogram alignment, classification and averaging. Acquiring three to four tomographic tilt series takes approximately 12 h on a JEM2200FS electron microscope. We expect this time requirement to decrease substantially as the technique matures. Time required for annotation and subtomogram averaging varies widely depending on the project goals and data volume. PMID:25321408

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chen, Limiao, E-mail: chenlimiao@csu.edu.cn; College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083; Wu, Min

The semiconductor nanostructures decorated with noble metals have attracted increasing attention due to their interesting physical and chemical properties. In this work, urchin-like monoclinic (m-) LaVO{sub 4} microspheres were prepared by a hydrothermal method and used as a template to fabricate Ag nanoparticle-decorated m-LaVO{sub 4} composites. The morphology and structure were characterized by transmission electron microscope, high-resolution transmission electron microscope, scanning electron microscope, and energy-dispersive X-ray. It was found that Ag nanoparticles with narrow size distribution were uniformly loaded on urchin-like m-LaVO{sub 4} microspheres, and the resulted composite microspheres showed distinct surface plasmon absorption band compared to pure m-LaVO{sub 4}more » microspheres. Photocatalytic activities of as-prepared samples were examined by studying the degradation of methyl orange solutions under visible-light irradiation (> 400 nm). Results clearly showed that urchin-like m-LaVO{sub 4}/Ag microspheres possess much higher photocatalytic activity than pure m-LaVO{sub 4} microspheres and P25. - Highlights: • m-LaVO{sub 4}/Ag composites microspheres were fabricated by a hydrothermal method. • m-LaVO{sub 4} microspheres show higher photocatalytic activity than m-LaVO{sub 4} microspheres. • m-LaVO{sub 4}/Ag microspheres exhibit a good stability.« less

[Thirty years of the electron microscope investigation in zoology and parasitology in the Zoological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences].

PubMed

Shatrov, A B

2003-01-01

The history of the electron microscope investigations in zoology and parasitology in the Zoological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences and progress in scanning and transmission electron microscope investigations in this field of biology to the moment are briefly accounted.

75 FR 52928 - Emory University, et al., Notice of Consolidated Decision on Applications for Duty-Free Entry of...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-08-30

... Consolidated Decision on Applications for Duty-Free Entry of Electron Microscopes This is a decision... 30322. Instrument: Electron Microscope. Manufacturer: JEOL, Ltd., Japan. Intended Use: See notice at 75... Department of Health, Menands, NY 12204-2719. Instrument: Electron Microscope. Manufacturer: JEOL Ltd., Japan...

The Application of High-Resolution Electron Microscopy to Problems in Solid State Chemistry: The Exploits of a Peeping TEM.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eyring, LeRoy

1980-01-01

Describes methods for using the high-resolution electron microscope in conjunction with other tools to reveal the identity and environment of atoms. Problems discussed include the ultimate structure of real crystalline solids including defect structure and the mechanisms of chemical reactions. (CS)

Electron energy loss spectroscopy on semiconductor heterostructures for optoelectronics and photonics applications.

PubMed

Eljarrat, A; López-Conesa, L; Estradé, S; Peiró, F

2016-05-01

In this work, we present characterization methods for the analysis of nanometer-sized devices, based on silicon and III-V nitride semiconductor materials. These methods are devised in order to take advantage of the aberration corrected scanning transmission electron microscope, equipped with a monochromator. This set-up ensures the necessary high spatial and energy resolution for the characterization of the smallest structures. As with these experiments, we aim to obtain chemical and structural information, we use electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). The low-loss region of EELS is exploited, which features fundamental electronic properties of semiconductor materials and facilitates a high data throughput. We show how the detailed analysis of these spectra, using theoretical models and computational tools, can enhance the analytical power of EELS. In this sense, initially, results from the model-based fit of the plasmon peak are presented. Moreover, the application of multivariate analysis algorithms to low-loss EELS is explored. Finally, some physical limitations of the technique, such as spatial delocalization, are mentioned. © 2015 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2015 Royal Microscopical Society.

A simple method for environmental cell depressurization for use with an electron microscope.

PubMed

Ogawa, Naoki; Mizokawa, Ryo; Saito, Minoru; Ishikawa, Akira

2017-12-01

With the aid of the environmental cell (EC) in electron microscopy, hydrated specimens have been observed at high resolutions that optical microscopy cannot attain. Due to the ultra-high vacuum conditions of the inner column of the electron microscope, the EC requires sealing films that are sufficiently thin to allow electron transmission and that are sufficiently tough to withstand the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the EC. However, most hydrated specimens can be observed at low vacuum because the saturated vapor pressure of water is known to be 0.02 atm at room temperature. These concepts have been used in the differential pumping system, but it is complicated and relatively expensive. In this work, we propose a simple method for depressurization of the EC using a 'balloon structure' and demonstrate the theoretical benefits and practical improvement for specimen observations in low-vacuum conditions. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Japanese Society of Microscopy. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Excellent electrical conductivity of the exfoliated and fluorinated hexagonal boron nitride nanosheets.

PubMed

Xue, Yafang; Liu, Qian; He, Guanjie; Xu, Kaibing; Jiang, Lin; Hu, Xianghua; Hu, Junqing

2013-01-24

The insulator characteristic of hexagonal boron nitride limits its applications in microelectronics. In this paper, the fluorinated hexagonal boron nitride nanosheets were prepared by doping fluorine into the boron nitride nanosheets exfoliated from the bulk boron nitride in isopropanol via a facile chemical solution method with fluoboric acid; interestingly, these boron nitride nanosheets demonstrate a typical semiconductor characteristic which were studied on a new scanning tunneling microscope-transmission electron microscope holder. Since this property changes from an insulator to a semiconductor of the boron nitride, these nanosheets will be able to extend their applications in designing and fabricating electronic nanodevices.

Photoluminescence studies on Cd(1-x)Zn(x)S:Mn2+ nanocrystals.

PubMed

Sethi, Ruchi; Kumar, Lokendra; Pandey, A C

2009-09-01

Highly monodispersed, undoped and doped with Mn2+, binary and ternary (CdS, ZnS, Cd(1-x)Zn(x)S) compound semiconductor nanocrystals have been synthesized by co-precipitation method using citric acid as a stabilizer. As prepared sample are characterized by X-ray diffraction, Small angle X-ray scattering, Transmission electron microscope, Optical absorption and Photoluminescence spectroscopy, for their optical and structural properties. X-ray diffraction, Small angle X-ray scattering and Transmission electron microscope results confirm the preparation of monodispersed nanocrystals. Photoluminescence studies show a significant blue shift in the wavelength with an increasing concentration of Zn in alloy nanocrystals.

High-resolution, high-throughput imaging with a multibeam scanning electron microscope

PubMed Central

EBERLE, AL; MIKULA, S; SCHALEK, R; LICHTMAN, J; TATE, ML KNOTHE; ZEIDLER, D

2015-01-01

Electron–electron interactions and detector bandwidth limit the maximal imaging speed of single-beam scanning electron microscopes. We use multiple electron beams in a single column and detect secondary electrons in parallel to increase the imaging speed by close to two orders of magnitude and demonstrate imaging for a variety of samples ranging from biological brain tissue to semiconductor wafers. Lay Description The composition of our world and our bodies on the very small scale has always fascinated people, making them search for ways to make this visible to the human eye. Where light microscopes reach their resolution limit at a certain magnification, electron microscopes can go beyond. But their capability of visualizing extremely small features comes at the cost of a very small field of view. Some of the questions researchers seek to answer today deal with the ultrafine structure of brains, bones or computer chips. Capturing these objects with electron microscopes takes a lot of time – maybe even exceeding the time span of a human being – or new tools that do the job much faster. A new type of scanning electron microscope scans with 61 electron beams in parallel, acquiring 61 adjacent images of the sample at the same time a conventional scanning electron microscope captures one of these images. In principle, the multibeam scanning electron microscope’s field of view is 61 times larger and therefore coverage of the sample surface can be accomplished in less time. This enables researchers to think about large-scale projects, for example in the rather new field of connectomics. A very good introduction to imaging a brain at nanometre resolution can be found within course material from Harvard University on http://www.mcb80x.org/# as featured media entitled ‘connectomics’. PMID:25627873

SEM-microphotogrammetry, a new take on an old method for generating high-resolution 3D models from SEM images.

PubMed

Ball, A D; Job, P A; Walker, A E L

2017-08-01

The method we present here uses a scanning electron microscope programmed via macros to automatically capture dozens of images at suitable angles to generate accurate, detailed three-dimensional (3D) surface models with micron-scale resolution. We demonstrate that it is possible to use these Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images in conjunction with commercially available software originally developed for photogrammetry reconstructions from Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) cameras and to reconstruct 3D models of the specimen. These 3D models can then be exported as polygon meshes and eventually 3D printed. This technique offers the potential to obtain data suitable to reconstruct very tiny features (e.g. diatoms, butterfly scales and mineral fabrics) at nanometre resolution. Ultimately, we foresee this as being a useful tool for better understanding spatial relationships at very high resolution. However, our motivation is also to use it to produce 3D models to be used in public outreach events and exhibitions, especially for the blind or partially sighted. © 2017 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2017 Royal Microscopical Society.

Electrical Sensing Zone Particle Analyzer for Measuring Germination of Fungal Spores in the Presence of Other Particles1

PubMed Central

Santoro, T.; Stotzky, G.; Rem, L. T.

1967-01-01

Microscopic, respirometric, and electronic sizing methods for measuring germination of fungal spores were compared. With the electronic sizing method, early stages of germination (i.e., spore swelling) were detected long before germ tube emergence or significant changes in respiratory rates were observed. This method, which is rapid, easy, sensitive, and reproducible, also permits measuring the germination of spores when similar-size particles are present in concentrations considerably in excess of the number of spores. PMID:6069161

Analysis of improvement in performance and design parameters for enhancing resolution in an atmospheric scanning electron microscope.

PubMed

Yoon, Yeo Hun; Kim, Seung Jae; Kim, Dong Hwan

2015-12-01

The scanning electron microscope is used in various fields to go beyond diffraction limits of the optical microscope. However, the electron pathway should be conducted in a vacuum so as not to scatter electrons. The pretreatment of the sample is needed for use in the vacuum. To directly observe large and fully hydrophilic samples without pretreatment, the atmospheric scanning electron microscope (ASEM) is needed. We developed an electron filter unit and an electron detector unit for implementation of the ASEM. The key of the electron filter unit is that electrons are transmitted while air molecules remain untransmitted through the unit. The electron detector unit collected the backscattered electrons. We conducted experiments using the selected materials with Havar foil, carbon film and SiN film. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Japanese Society of Microscopy. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Self-consistent method for quantifying indium content from X-ray spectra of thick compound semiconductor specimens in a transmission electron microscope.

PubMed

Walther, T; Wang, X

2016-05-01

Based on Monte Carlo simulations of X-ray generation by fast electrons we calculate curves of effective sensitivity factors for analytical transmission electron microscopy based energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy including absorption and fluorescence effects, as a function of Ga K/L ratio for different indium and gallium containing compound semiconductors. For the case of InGaN alloy thin films we show that experimental spectra can thus be quantified without the need to measure specimen thickness or density, yielding self-consistent values for quantification with Ga K and Ga L lines. The effect of uncertainties in the detector efficiency are also shown to be reduced. © 2015 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2015 Royal Microscopical Society.

Microstructural Study of Micron-Sized Craters Simulating Stardust Impacts in Aluminum 1100 Targets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leroux, Hugues; Borg, Janet; Troadec, David; Djouadi, Zahia; Horz, Friedrich

2006-01-01

Various microscopic techniques were used to characterize experimental micro- craters in aluminium foils to prepare for the comprehensive analysis of the cometary and interstellar particle impacts in aluminium foils to be returned by the Stardust mission. First, SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) and EDS (Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy) were used to study the morphology of the impact craters and the bulk composition of the residues left by soda-lime glass impactors. A more detailed structural and compositional study of impactor remnants was then performed using TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy), EDS, and electron diffraction methods. The TEM samples were prepared by Focused Ion Beam (FIB) methods. This technique proved to be especially valuable in studying impact crater residues and impact crater morphology. Finally, we also showed that InfraRed microscopy (IR) can be a quick and reliable tool for such investigations. The combination of all of these tools enables a complete microscopic characterization of the craters.

Reprint of: Atmospheric scanning electron microscope observes cells and tissues in open medium through silicon nitride film.

PubMed

Nishiyama, Hidetoshi; Suga, Mitsuo; Ogura, Toshihiko; Maruyama, Yuusuke; Koizumi, Mitsuru; Mio, Kazuhiro; Kitamura, Shinichi; Sato, Chikara

2010-11-01

Direct observation of subcellular structures and their characterization is essential for understanding their physiological functions. To observe them in open environment, we have developed an inverted scanning electron microscope with a detachable, open-culture dish, capable of 8 nm resolution, and combined with a fluorescence microscope quasi-simultaneously observing the same area from the top. For scanning electron microscopy from the bottom, a silicon nitride film window in the base of the dish maintains a vacuum between electron gun and open sample dish while allowing electrons to pass through. Electrons are backscattered from the sample and captured by a detector under the dish. Cells cultured on the open dish can be externally manipulated under optical microscopy, fixed, and observed using scanning electron microscopy. Once fine structures have been revealed by scanning electron microscopy, their component proteins may be identified by comparison with separately prepared fluorescence-labeled optical microscopic images of the candidate proteins, with their heavy-metal-labeled or stained ASEM images. Furthermore, cell nuclei in a tissue block stained with platinum-blue were successfully observed without thin-sectioning, which suggests the applicability of this inverted scanning electron microscope to cancer diagnosis. This microscope visualizes mesoscopic-scale structures, and is also applicable to non-bioscience fields including polymer chemistry. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Nitrogen implantation with a scanning electron microscope.

PubMed

Becker, S; Raatz, N; Jankuhn, St; John, R; Meijer, J

2018-01-08

Established techniques for ion implantation rely on technically advanced and costly machines like particle accelerators that only few research groups possess. We report here about a new and surprisingly simple ion implantation method that is based upon a widespread laboratory instrument: The scanning electron microscope. We show that it can be utilized to ionize atoms and molecules from the restgas by collisions with electrons of the beam and subsequently accelerate and implant them into an insulating sample by the effect of a potential building up at the sample surface. Our method is demonstrated by the implantation of nitrogen ions into diamond and their subsequent conversion to nitrogen vacancy centres which can be easily measured by fluorescence confocal microscopy. To provide evidence that the observed centres are truly generated in the way we describe, we supplied a 98% isotopically enriched 15 N gas to the chamber, whose natural abundance is very low. By employing the method of optically detected magnetic resonance, we were thus able to verify that the investigated centres are actually created from the 15 N isotopes. We also show that this method is compatible with lithography techniques using e-beam resist, as demonstrated by the implantation of lines using PMMA.

An electron microscope for the aberration-corrected era.

PubMed

Krivanek, O L; Corbin, G J; Dellby, N; Elston, B F; Keyse, R J; Murfitt, M F; Own, C S; Szilagyi, Z S; Woodruff, J W

2008-02-01

Improved resolution made possible by aberration correction has greatly increased the demands on the performance of all parts of high-end electron microscopes. In order to meet these demands, we have designed and built an entirely new scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM). The microscope includes a flexible illumination system that allows the properties of its probe to be changed on-the-fly, a third-generation aberration corrector which corrects all geometric aberrations up to fifth order, an ultra-responsive yet stable five-axis sample stage, and a flexible configuration of optimized detectors. The microscope features many innovations, such as a modular column assembled from building blocks that can be stacked in almost any order, in situ storage and cleaning facilities for up to five samples, computer-controlled loading of samples into the column, and self-diagnosing electronics. The microscope construction is described, and examples of its capabilities are shown.

Binary pseudo-random patterned structures for modulation transfer function calibration and resolution characterization of a full-field transmission soft x-ray microscope

DOE PAGES

Yashchuk, V. V.; Fischer, P. J.; Chan, E. R.; ...

2015-12-09

We present a modulation transfer function (MTF) calibration method based on binary pseudo-random (BPR) one-dimensional sequences and two-dimensional arrays as an effective method for spectral characterization in the spatial frequency domain of a broad variety of metrology instrumentation, including interferometric microscopes, scatterometers, phase shifting Fizeau interferometers, scanning and transmission electron microscopes, and at this time, x-ray microscopes. The inherent power spectral density of BPR gratings and arrays, which has a deterministic white-noise-like character, allows a direct determination of the MTF with a uniform sensitivity over the entire spatial frequency range and field of view of an instrument. We demonstrate themore » MTF calibration and resolution characterization over the full field of a transmission soft x-ray microscope using a BPR multilayer (ML) test sample with 2.8 nm fundamental layer thickness. We show that beyond providing a direct measurement of the microscope's MTF, tests with the BPRML sample can be used to fine tune the instrument's focal distance. Finally, our results confirm the universality of the method that makes it applicable to a large variety of metrology instrumentation with spatial wavelength bandwidths from a few nanometers to hundreds of millimeters.« less

A simple method to synthesize polyhedral hexagonal boron nitride nanofibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Liang-xu; Zheng, Ying; Li, Zhao-hui; shen, Xiao-nv; Wei, Ke-mei

2007-12-01

Hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) fibers with polyhedral morphology were synthesized with a simple-operational, large-scale and low-cost method. The sample obtained was studied by X-ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS), electron energy lose spectroscopy (EELS), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), etc., which matched with h-BN. Environment scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) indicated that the BN fibers possess polyhedral morphology. The diameter of the BN fibers is mainly in the range of 100-500 nm.

x-y-recording in transmission electron microscopy. A versatile and inexpensive interface to personal computers with application to stereology.

PubMed

Rickmann, M; Siklós, L; Joó, F; Wolff, J R

1990-09-01

An interface for IBM XT/AT-compatible computers is described which has been designed to read the actual specimen stage position of electron microscopes. The complete system consists of (i) optical incremental encoders attached to the x- and y-stage drivers of the microscope, (ii) two keypads for operator input, (iii) an interface card fitted to the bus of the personal computer, (iv) a standard configuration IBM XT (or compatible) personal computer optionally equipped with a (v) HP Graphic Language controllable colour plotter. The small size of the encoders and their connection to the stage drivers by simple ribbed belts allows an easy adaptation of the system to most electron microscopes. Operation of the interface card itself is supported by any high-level language available for personal computers. By the modular concept of these languages, the system can be customized to various applications, and no computer expertise is needed for actual operation. The present configuration offers an inexpensive attachment, which covers a wide range of applications from a simple notebook to high-resolution (200-nm) mapping of tissue. Since section coordinates can be processed in real-time, stereological estimations can be derived directly "on microscope". This is exemplified by an application in which particle numbers were determined by the disector method.

A new apparatus for electron tomography in the scanning electron microscope

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Morandi, V., E-mail: morandi@bo.imm.cnr.it; Maccagnani, P.; Masini, L.

2015-06-23

The three-dimensional reconstruction of a microscopic specimen has been obtained by applying the tomographic algorithm to a set of images acquired in a Scanning Electron Microscope. This result was achieved starting from a series of projections obtained by stepwise rotating the sample under the beam raster. The Scanning Electron Microscope was operated in the scanning-transmission imaging mode, where the intensity of the transmitted electron beam is a monotonic function of the local mass-density and thickness of the specimen. The detection strategy has been implemented and tailored in order to maintain the projection requirement over the large tilt range, as requiredmore » by the tomographic workflow. A Si-based electron detector and an eucentric-rotation specimen holder have been specifically developed for the purpose.« less

ultraLM and miniLM: Locator tools for smart tracking of fluorescent cells in correlative light and electron microscopy.

PubMed

Brama, Elisabeth; Peddie, Christopher J; Wilkes, Gary; Gu, Yan; Collinson, Lucy M; Jones, Martin L

2016-12-13

In-resin fluorescence (IRF) protocols preserve fluorescent proteins in resin-embedded cells and tissues for correlative light and electron microscopy, aiding interpretation of macromolecular function within the complex cellular landscape. Dual-contrast IRF samples can be imaged in separate fluorescence and electron microscopes, or in dual-modality integrated microscopes for high resolution correlation of fluorophore to organelle. IRF samples also offer a unique opportunity to automate correlative imaging workflows. Here we present two new locator tools for finding and following fluorescent cells in IRF blocks, enabling future automation of correlative imaging. The ultraLM is a fluorescence microscope that integrates with an ultramicrotome, which enables 'smart collection' of ultrathin sections containing fluorescent cells or tissues for subsequent transmission electron microscopy or array tomography. The miniLM is a fluorescence microscope that integrates with serial block face scanning electron microscopes, which enables 'smart tracking' of fluorescent structures during automated serial electron image acquisition from large cell and tissue volumes.

Local dynamic range compensation for scanning electron microscope imaging system by sub-blocking multiple peak HE with convolution.

PubMed

Sim, K S; Teh, V; Tey, Y C; Kho, T K

2016-11-01

This paper introduces new development technique to improve the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) image quality and we name it as sub-blocking multiple peak histogram equalization (SUB-B-MPHE) with convolution operator. By using this new proposed technique, it shows that the new modified MPHE performs better than original MPHE. In addition, the sub-blocking method consists of convolution operator which can help to remove the blocking effect for SEM images after applying this new developed technique. Hence, by using the convolution operator, it effectively removes the blocking effect by properly distributing the suitable pixel value for the whole image. Overall, the SUB-B-MPHE with convolution outperforms the rest of methods. SCANNING 38:492-501, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Automated particle correspondence and accurate tilt-axis detection in tilted-image pairs

DOE PAGES

Shatsky, Maxim; Arbelaez, Pablo; Han, Bong-Gyoon; ...

2014-07-01

Tilted electron microscope images are routinely collected for an ab initio structure reconstruction as a part of the Random Conical Tilt (RCT) or Orthogonal Tilt Reconstruction (OTR) methods, as well as for various applications using the "free-hand" procedure. These procedures all require identification of particle pairs in two corresponding images as well as accurate estimation of the tilt-axis used to rotate the electron microscope (EM) grid. Here we present a computational approach, PCT (particle correspondence from tilted pairs), based on tilt-invariant context and projection matching that addresses both problems. The method benefits from treating the two problems as a singlemore » optimization task. It automatically finds corresponding particle pairs and accurately computes tilt-axis direction even in the cases when EM grid is not perfectly planar.« less

Fiber-coupled thermal microscope for solid materials based on thermoreflectance method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miyake, Shugo; Hatori, Kimihito; Ohtsuki, Tetsuya; Awano, Takaaki; Sekine, Makoto

2018-06-01

Measurement of the thermal properties of solid-state materials, including high- and low-thermal-conductivity materials in electronic devices, is very important to improve thermal design. The thermoreflectance method is well known as a powerful technique for measuring a wide range of thermal conductivity. However, in order to precisely determine the thermoreflectance signal, the alignment between two laser beams should be perfectly coaxial, similar to that in the numerical calculation model. In this paper, a developed fiber-coupled thermal microscope based on the thermoreflectance method is demonstrated, which we use to determine the frequency dependence of the temperature responses of silicon, sapphire, zirconium, and Pyrex glass samples.

Synthesis, characterization, and magnetic properties of ZnO-ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles with high photocatalytic activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Falak, P.; Hassanzadeh-Tabrizi, S. A.; Saffar-Teluri, A.

2017-11-01

In the present research, a magnetic ZnO-ZnFe2O4 binary nanocomposite was synthesized by a one-step microemulsion method. The characteristics of the synthesized powders were characterized using various analytical instruments including X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis, vibrating sample magnetometer, and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy. The results of transmission electron microscope proved that the synthesized nanoparticles have irregular morphologies and the average particle size is about 20 nm. The photocatalytic investigation of ZnO-ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles was carried out using methylene blue solution under UV light. The synthesized nanoparticles showed enhanced photocatalytic performance in comparison with the ZnO nanoparticles more than 40%. The magnetization saturation value of ZnO-ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles was about 5.8 emu/g, which was high enough to be magnetically removed by applying a magnetic field. The results showed that the magnetization and coercivity of the samples reduced by increasing calcination temperature.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yashchuk, V. V.; Fischer, P. J.; Chan, E. R.

We present a modulation transfer function (MTF) calibration method based on binary pseudo-random (BPR) one-dimensional sequences and two-dimensional arrays as an effective method for spectral characterization in the spatial frequency domain of a broad variety of metrology instrumentation, including interferometric microscopes, scatterometers, phase shifting Fizeau interferometers, scanning and transmission electron microscopes, and at this time, x-ray microscopes. The inherent power spectral density of BPR gratings and arrays, which has a deterministic white-noise-like character, allows a direct determination of the MTF with a uniform sensitivity over the entire spatial frequency range and field of view of an instrument. We demonstrate themore » MTF calibration and resolution characterization over the full field of a transmission soft x-ray microscope using a BPR multilayer (ML) test sample with 2.8 nm fundamental layer thickness. We show that beyond providing a direct measurement of the microscope's MTF, tests with the BPRML sample can be used to fine tune the instrument's focal distance. Finally, our results confirm the universality of the method that makes it applicable to a large variety of metrology instrumentation with spatial wavelength bandwidths from a few nanometers to hundreds of millimeters.« less

Synthesis, characterization, and hydrogen uptake studies of magnesium nanoparticles by solution reduction method

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rather, Sami ullah, E-mail: rathersami@gmail.com

2014-12-15

Graphical abstract: X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern of magnesium nanoparticles synthesized by solution reduction method with and without TOPO. - Highlights: • Simple and convenient method of preparing Mg nanoparticles. • Characterized by XRD, SEM, FESEM and TEM. • Trioctylphosphine oxide offers a greater control over the size of the particles. • Hydrogen uptake of samples at different temperatures and pressure of 4.5 MPa. - Abstract: Facile and simple, surfactant-mediated solution reduction method was used to synthesize monodisperse magnesium nanoparticles. Little amount of magnesium oxide nanoparticles were also formed due to the presence of TOPO and easy oxidation of magnesium, eventhough,more » all precautions were taken to avoid oxidation of the sample. Precise size control of particles was achieved by carefully varying the concentration ratio of two different types of surfactants, – trioctylphosphine oxide and hexadecylamine. Recrystallized magnesium nanoparticle samples with and without TOPO were analyzed by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, field emission scanning electron microscope, and transmission electron microscope. The peak diameters of particles were estimated from size distribution analysis of the morphological data. The particles synthesized in the presence and absence of TOPO found to have diameters 46.5 and 34.8 nm, respectively. This observed dependence of particle size on the presence of TOPO offers a convenient method to control the particle size by simply using appropriate surfactant concentrations. Exceptional enhancement in hydrogen uptake and kinetics in synthesized magnesium nanoparticles as compared to commercial magnesium sample was due to the smaller particle size and improved morphology. Overall hydrogen uptake not affected by the little variation in particle size with and without TOPO.« less

Integrated light and scanning electron microscopy of GFP-expressing cells.

PubMed

Peddie, Christopher J; Liv, Nalan; Hoogenboom, Jacob P; Collinson, Lucy M

2014-01-01

Integration of light and electron microscopes provides imaging tools in which fluorescent proteins can be localized to cellular structures with a high level of precision. However, until recently, there were few methods that could deliver specimens with sufficient fluorescent signal and electron contrast for dual imaging without intermediate staining steps. Here, we report protocols that preserve green fluorescent protein (GFP) in whole cells and in ultrathin sections of resin-embedded cells, with membrane contrast for integrated imaging. Critically, GFP is maintained in a stable and active state within the vacuum of an integrated light and scanning electron microscope. For light microscopists, additional structural information gives context to fluorescent protein expression in whole cells, illustrated here by analysis of filopodia and focal adhesions in Madin Darby canine kidney cells expressing GFP-Paxillin. For electron microscopists, GFP highlights the proteins of interest within the architectural space of the cell, illustrated here by localization of the conical lipid diacylglycerol to cellular membranes. © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Simultaneous Correlative Scanning Electron and High-NA Fluorescence Microscopy

PubMed Central

Liv, Nalan; Zonnevylle, A. Christiaan; Narvaez, Angela C.; Effting, Andries P. J.; Voorneveld, Philip W.; Lucas, Miriam S.; Hardwick, James C.; Wepf, Roger A.; Kruit, Pieter; Hoogenboom, Jacob P.

2013-01-01

Correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM) is a unique method for investigating biological structure-function relations. With CLEM protein distributions visualized in fluorescence can be mapped onto the cellular ultrastructure measured with electron microscopy. Widespread application of correlative microscopy is hampered by elaborate experimental procedures related foremost to retrieving regions of interest in both modalities and/or compromises in integrated approaches. We present a novel approach to correlative microscopy, in which a high numerical aperture epi-fluorescence microscope and a scanning electron microscope illuminate the same area of a sample at the same time. This removes the need for retrieval of regions of interest leading to a drastic reduction of inspection times and the possibility for quantitative investigations of large areas and datasets with correlative microscopy. We demonstrate Simultaneous CLEM (SCLEM) analyzing cell-cell connections and membrane protrusions in whole uncoated colon adenocarcinoma cell line cells stained for actin and cortactin with AlexaFluor488. SCLEM imaging of coverglass-mounted tissue sections with both electron-dense and fluorescence staining is also shown. PMID:23409024

Scanning electron microscope observation of dislocations in semiconductor and metal materials.

PubMed

Kuwano, Noriyuki; Itakura, Masaru; Nagatomo, Yoshiyuki; Tachibana, Shigeaki

2010-08-01

Scanning electron microscope (SEM) image contrasts have been investigated for dislocations in semiconductor and metal materials. It is revealed that single dislocations can be observed in a high contrast in SEM images formed by backscattered electrons (BSE) under the condition of a normal configuration of SEM. The BSE images of dislocations were compared with those of the transmission electron microscope and scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) and the dependence of BSE image contrast on the tilting of specimen was examined to discuss the origin of image contrast. From the experimental results, it is concluded that the BSE images of single dislocations are attributed to the diffraction effect and related with high-angle dark-field images of STEM.

Flexible high-voltage supply for experimental electron microscope

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chapman, G. L.; Jung, E. A.; Lewis, R. N.; Van Loon, L. S.; Welter, L. M.

1969-01-01

Scanning microscope uses a field-emission tip for the electron source, an electron gun that simultaneously accelerates and focuses electrons from the source, and one auxiliary lens to produce a final probe size at the specimen on the order of angstroms.

Assessing and benchmarking multiphoton microscopes for biologists

PubMed Central

Corbin, Kaitlin; Pinkard, Henry; Peck, Sebastian; Beemiller, Peter; Krummel, Matthew F.

2017-01-01

Multiphoton microscopy has become staple tool for tracking cells within tissues and organs due to superior depth of penetration, low excitation volumes, and reduced phototoxicity. Many factors, ranging from laser pulse width to relay optics to detectors and electronics, contribute to the overall ability of these microscopes to excite and detect fluorescence deep within tissues. However, we have found that there are few standard ways already described in the literature to distinguish between microscopes or to benchmark existing microscopes to measure the overall quality and efficiency of these instruments. Here, we discuss some simple parameters and methods that can either be used within a multiphoton facility or by a prospective purchaser to benchmark performance. This can both assist in identifying decay in microscope performance and in choosing features of a scope that are suited to experimental needs. PMID:24974026

Scanning-electron-microscope used in real-time study of friction and wear

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brainard, W. A.; Buckley, D. H.

1975-01-01

Small friction and wear apparatus built directly into scanning-electron-microscope provides both dynamic observation and microscopic view of wear process. Friction and wear tests conducted using this system have indicated that considerable information can readily be gained.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Buck, E.C.; Dietz, N.L.; Bates, J.K.

Uranium contaminated soils from the Fernald Operation Site, Ohio, have been examined by a combination of optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy with backscattered electron detection (SEM/BSE), and analytical electron microscopy (AEM). A method is described for preparing of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) thin sections by ultramicrotomy. By using these thin sections, SEM and TEM images can be compared directly. Uranium was found in iron oxides, silicates (soddyite), phosphates (autunites), and fluorite. Little uranium was associated with clays. The distribution of uranium phases was found to be inhomogeneous at the microscopic level.

Probing plasmodesmata function with biochemical inhibitors.

PubMed

White, Rosemary G

2015-01-01

To investigate plasmodesmata (PD) function, a useful technique is to monitor the effect on cell-to-cell transport of applying an inhibitor of a physiological process, protein, or other cell component of interest. Changes in PD transport can then be monitored in one of several ways, most commonly by measuring the cell-to-cell movement of fluorescent tracer dyes or of free fluorescent proteins. Effects on PD structure can be detected in thin sections of embedded tissue observed using an electron microscope, most commonly a Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM). This chapter outlines commonly used inhibitors, methods for treating different tissues, how to detect altered cell-to-cell transport and PD structure, and important caveats.

Nanoscale amorphization of GeTe nanowire with conductive atomic force microscope.

PubMed

Kim, JunHo

2014-10-01

We fabricated GeTe nanowires by using Au catalysis mediated vapor-liquid-solid method. The fabricated nanowires were confirmed by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. For a nanowire with - 150 nm diameter, we performed amorphization experiment with conductive atomic force microscope. We examined the structural change of the nanowire with several bias voltages from 0 V to 10 V. Above bias voltage of 6-7 V, some points of the nanowire showed transition to amorphous phase. The consumed energy for the amorphization was estimated to be 4-5 nJ, which was close to the other result of nanowire tested with a four probe device.

Thermal-Wave Microscope

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jones, Robert E.; Kramarchuk, Ihor; Williams, Wallace D.; Pouch, John J.; Gilbert, Percy

1989-01-01

Computer-controlled thermal-wave microscope developed to investigate III-V compound semiconductor devices and materials. Is nondestructive technique providing information on subsurface thermal features of solid samples. Furthermore, because this is subsurface technique, three-dimensional imaging also possible. Microscope uses intensity-modulated electron beam of modified scanning electron microscope to generate thermal waves in sample. Acoustic waves generated by thermal waves received by transducer and processed in computer to form images displayed on video display of microscope or recorded on magnetic disk.

a New Method to Prepare the Novel Anatase TiO2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cui, Guanjun; Xu, Zhanxia; Wang, Yan; Zhang, Min; Yang, Jianjun

In this paper, a kind of novel anatase TiO2 nanoparticle with single-electron-trapped oxygen vacancies was prepared by hydrothermal treated nanotube titanic acid. The morphology, structure, and properties of the products were characterized by transmission electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, electron spin resonance, and photoluminescence. Photocatalytic decolorization of the Methylene Blue solution was carried out in the visible light region and showed a high photocatalytic activity.

Nanometres-resolution Kikuchi patterns from materials science specimens with transmission electron forward scatter diffraction in the scanning electron microscope.

PubMed

Brodusch, N; Demers, H; Gauvin, R

2013-04-01

A charge-coupled device camera of an electron backscattered diffraction system in a scanning electron microscope was positioned below a thin specimen and transmission Kikuchi patterns were collected. Contrary to electron backscattered diffraction, transmission electron forward scatter diffraction provides phase identification and orientation mapping at the nanoscale. The minimum Pd particle size for which a Kikuchi diffraction pattern was detected and indexed reliably was 5.6 nm. An orientation mapping resolution of 5 nm was measured at 30 kV. The resolution obtained with transmission electron forward scatter diffraction was of the same order of magnitude than that reported in electron nanodiffraction in the transmission electron microscope. An energy dispersive spectrometer X-ray map and a transmission electron forward scatter diffraction orientation map were acquired simultaneously. The high-resolution chemical, phase and orientation maps provided at once information on the chemical form, orientation and coherency of precipitates in an aluminium-lithium 2099 alloy. © 2013 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2013 Royal Microscopical Society.

Correlative imaging across microscopy platforms using the fast and accurate relocation of microscopic experimental regions (FARMER) method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huynh, Toan; Daddysman, Matthew K.; Bao, Ying; Selewa, Alan; Kuznetsov, Andrey; Philipson, Louis H.; Scherer, Norbert F.

2017-05-01

Imaging specific regions of interest (ROIs) of nanomaterials or biological samples with different imaging modalities (e.g., light and electron microscopy) or at subsequent time points (e.g., before and after off-microscope procedures) requires relocating the ROIs. Unfortunately, relocation is typically difficult and very time consuming to achieve. Previously developed techniques involve the fabrication of arrays of features, the procedures for which are complex, and the added features can interfere with imaging the ROIs. We report the Fast and Accurate Relocation of Microscopic Experimental Regions (FARMER) method, which only requires determining the coordinates of 3 (or more) conspicuous reference points (REFs) and employs an algorithm based on geometric operators to relocate ROIs in subsequent imaging sessions. The 3 REFs can be quickly added to various regions of a sample using simple tools (e.g., permanent markers or conductive pens) and do not interfere with the ROIs. The coordinates of the REFs and the ROIs are obtained in the first imaging session (on a particular microscope platform) using an accurate and precise encoded motorized stage. In subsequent imaging sessions, the FARMER algorithm finds the new coordinates of the ROIs (on the same or different platforms), using the coordinates of the manually located REFs and the previously recorded coordinates. FARMER is convenient, fast (3-15 min/session, at least 10-fold faster than manual searches), accurate (4.4 μm average error on a microscope with a 100x objective), and precise (almost all errors are <8 μm), even with deliberate rotating and tilting of the sample well beyond normal repositioning accuracy. We demonstrate this versatility by imaging and re-imaging a diverse set of samples and imaging methods: live mammalian cells at different time points; fixed bacterial cells on two microscopes with different imaging modalities; and nanostructures on optical and electron microscopes. FARMER can be readily adapted to any imaging system with an encoded motorized stage and can facilitate multi-session and multi-platform imaging experiments in biology, materials science, photonics, and nanoscience.

Characterization of Sulfur and Nanostructured Sulfur Battery Cathodes in Electron Microscopy Without Sublimation Artifacts

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Levin, Barnaby D. A.; Zachman, Michael J.; Werner, Jörg G.

Abstract Lithium sulfur (Li–S) batteries have the potential to provide higher energy storage density at lower cost than conventional lithium ion batteries. A key challenge for Li–S batteries is the loss of sulfur to the electrolyte during cycling. This loss can be mitigated by sequestering the sulfur in nanostructured carbon–sulfur composites. The nanoscale characterization of the sulfur distribution within these complex nanostructured electrodes is normally performed by electron microscopy, but sulfur sublimates and redistributes in the high-vacuum conditions of conventional electron microscopes. The resulting sublimation artifacts render characterization of sulfur in conventional electron microscopes problematic and unreliable. Here, we demonstratemore » two techniques, cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM) and scanning electron microscopy in air (airSEM), that enable the reliable characterization of sulfur across multiple length scales by suppressing sulfur sublimation. We use cryo-TEM and airSEM to examine carbon–sulfur composites synthesized for use as Li–S battery cathodes, noting several cases where the commonly employed sulfur melt infusion method is highly inefficient at infiltrating sulfur into porous carbon hosts.« less

Concept and design of a beam blanker with integrated photoconductive switch for ultrafast electron microscopy.

PubMed

Weppelman, I G C; Moerland, R J; Hoogenboom, J P; Kruit, P

2018-01-01

We present a new method to create ultrashort electron pulses by integrating a photoconductive switch with an electrostatic deflector. This paper discusses the feasibility of such a system by analytical and numerical calculations. We argue that ultrafast electron pulses can be achieved for micrometer scale dimensions of the blanker, which are feasible with MEMS-based fabrication technology. According to basic models, the design presented in this paper is capable of generating 100 fs electron pulses with spatial resolutions of less than 10 nm. Our concept for an ultrafast beam blanker (UFB) may provide an attractive alternative to perform ultrafast electron microscopy, as it does not require modification of the microscope nor realignment between DC and pulsed mode of operation. Moreover, only low laser pulse energies are required. Due to its small dimensions the UFB can be inserted in the beam line of a commercial microscope via standard entry ports for blankers or variable apertures. The use of a photoconductive switch ensures minimal jitter between laser and electron pulses. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Selective scanning tunnelling microscope electron-induced reactions of single biphenyl molecules on a Si(100) surface.

PubMed

Riedel, Damien; Bocquet, Marie-Laure; Lesnard, Hervé; Lastapis, Mathieu; Lorente, Nicolas; Sonnet, Philippe; Dujardin, Gérald

2009-06-03

Selective electron-induced reactions of individual biphenyl molecules adsorbed in their weakly chemisorbed configuration on a Si(100) surface are investigated by using the tip of a low-temperature (5 K) scanning tunnelling microscope (STM) as an atomic size source of electrons. Selected types of molecular reactions are produced, depending on the polarity of the surface voltage during STM excitation. At negative surface voltages, the biphenyl molecule diffuses across the surface in its weakly chemisorbed configuration. At positive surface voltages, different types of molecular reactions are activated, which involve the change of adsorption configuration from the weakly chemisorbed to the strongly chemisorbed bistable and quadristable configurations. Calculated reaction pathways of the molecular reactions on the silicon surface, using the nudge elastic band method, provide evidence that the observed selectivity as a function of the surface voltage polarity cannot be ascribed to different activation energies. These results, together with the measured threshold surface voltages and the calculated molecular electronic structures via density functional theory, suggest that the electron-induced molecular reactions are driven by selective electron detachment (oxidation) or attachment (reduction) processes.

A Survey of the Use of Iterative Reconstruction Algorithms in Electron Microscopy

PubMed Central

Otón, J.; Vilas, J. L.; Kazemi, M.; Melero, R.; del Caño, L.; Cuenca, J.; Conesa, P.; Gómez-Blanco, J.; Marabini, R.; Carazo, J. M.

2017-01-01

One of the key steps in Electron Microscopy is the tomographic reconstruction of a three-dimensional (3D) map of the specimen being studied from a set of two-dimensional (2D) projections acquired at the microscope. This tomographic reconstruction may be performed with different reconstruction algorithms that can be grouped into several large families: direct Fourier inversion methods, back-projection methods, Radon methods, or iterative algorithms. In this review, we focus on the latter family of algorithms, explaining the mathematical rationale behind the different algorithms in this family as they have been introduced in the field of Electron Microscopy. We cover their use in Single Particle Analysis (SPA) as well as in Electron Tomography (ET). PMID:29312997

Relative merits and limiting factors for x-ray and electron microscopy of thick, hydrated organic materials

DOE PAGES

Du, Ming; Jacobsen, Chris

2017-10-07

Electron and x-ray microscopes allow one to image the entire, unlabeled structure of hydrated materials at a resolution well beyond what visible light microscopes can achieve. However, both approaches involve ionizing radiation, so that radiation damage must be considered as one of the limits to imaging. Drawing upon earlier work, we describe here a unified approach to estimating the image contrast (and thus the required exposure and corresponding radiation dose) in both x-ray and electron microscopy. This approach accounts for factors such as plural and inelastic scattering, and (in electron microscopy) the use of energy filters to obtain so-called "zeromore » loss" images. As expected, it shows that electron microscopy offers lower dose for specimens thinner than about 1 mu m (such as for studies of macromolecules, viruses, bacteria and archaebacteria, and thin sectioned material), while x-ray microscopy offers superior characteristics for imaging thicker specimen such as whole eukaryotic cells, thick-sectioned tissues, and organs. The required radiation dose scales strongly as a function of the desired spatial resolution, allowing one to understand the limits of live and frozen hydrated specimen imaging. Lastly, we consider the factors limiting x-ray microscopy of thicker materials, suggesting that specimens as thick as a whole mouse brain can be imaged with x-ray microscopes without significant image degradation should appropriate image reconstruction methods be identified.« less

Relative merits and limiting factors for x-ray and electron microscopy of thick, hydrated organic materials

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Du, Ming; Jacobsen, Chris

Electron and x-ray microscopes allow one to image the entire, unlabeled structure of hydrated materials at a resolution well beyond what visible light microscopes can achieve. However, both approaches involve ionizing radiation, so that radiation damage must be considered as one of the limits to imaging. Drawing upon earlier work, we describe here a unified approach to estimating the image contrast (and thus the required exposure and corresponding radiation dose) in both x-ray and electron microscopy. This approach accounts for factors such as plural and inelastic scattering, and (in electron microscopy) the use of energy filters to obtain so-called "zeromore » loss" images. As expected, it shows that electron microscopy offers lower dose for specimens thinner than about 1 mu m (such as for studies of macromolecules, viruses, bacteria and archaebacteria, and thin sectioned material), while x-ray microscopy offers superior characteristics for imaging thicker specimen such as whole eukaryotic cells, thick-sectioned tissues, and organs. The required radiation dose scales strongly as a function of the desired spatial resolution, allowing one to understand the limits of live and frozen hydrated specimen imaging. Lastly, we consider the factors limiting x-ray microscopy of thicker materials, suggesting that specimens as thick as a whole mouse brain can be imaged with x-ray microscopes without significant image degradation should appropriate image reconstruction methods be identified.« less

Red tea leaves infusion as a reducing and stabilizing agent in silver nanoparticles synthesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pluta, K.; Tryba, A. M.; Malina, D.; Sobczak-Kupiec, A.

2017-12-01

Due to the unique properties of silver nanoparticles there is growing interest in their applications. Current trends in nanotechnology are focused on developing a new technique to synthesize nanoparticles using biological methods associated with the use of plant extracts, fungi, bacteria or essential oils. These methods are a promising alternative to conventional approaches which can minimize the use of hazardous substances. The silver nanoparticles synthesis using red tea infusion as a reducing and stabilizing agent and their characteristics have been described. Total antioxidant capacity using DPPH radical and total content of phenolic compounds by Folin-Ciocalteau method were measured in tea infusion. Synthesis of silver nanoparticles was carried out using chemical reduction at various temperatures. Furthermore, the effect of tea infusion volume added to reaction mixture on nanoparticles’ properties was investigated. Finally, nanosilver suspensions were characterized by UV-vis spectrophotometer, dynamic light scattering (DLS) scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). Moreover, phytotoxicity of silver nanoparticles was determined using Phytotestkit microbiotest.

Synthesis of alumina ceramic encapsulation for self-healing materials on thermal barrier coating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Golim, O. P.; Prastomo, N.; Izzudin, H.; Hastuty, S.; Sundawa, R.; Sugiarti, E.; Thosin, K. A. Z.

2018-03-01

Durability of Thermal Barrier Coating or TBC can be optimized by inducing Self-Healing capabilities with intermetallic materials MoSi2. Nevertheless, high temperature operation causes the self-healing materials to become oxidized and lose its healing capabilities. Therefore, a method to introduce ceramic encapsulation for MoSi2 is needed to protect it from early oxidation. The encapsulation process is synthesized through a simple precipitation method with colloidal aluminum hydroxide as precursor and variations on calcination process. Semi-quantitative analysis on the synthesized sample is done by using X-ray diffraction (XRD) method. Meanwhile, qualitative analysis on the morphology of the encapsulation was carried out by using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) equipped with dual Focus Ion Beam (FIB). The result of the experiment shows that calcination process significantly affects the final characteristic of encapsulation. The optimum encapsulation process was synthesized by colloidal aluminum hydroxide as a precursor, with a double step calcination process in low pressure until 900 °C.

Retrieving the Quantitative Chemical Information at Nanoscale from Scanning Electron Microscope Energy Dispersive X-ray Measurements by Machine Learning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jany, B. R.; Janas, A.; Krok, F.

2017-11-01

The quantitative composition of metal alloy nanowires on InSb(001) semiconductor surface and gold nanostructures on germanium surface is determined by blind source separation (BSS) machine learning (ML) method using non negative matrix factorization (NMF) from energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) spectrum image maps measured in a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The BSS method blindly decomposes the collected EDX spectrum image into three source components, which correspond directly to the X-ray signals coming from the supported metal nanostructures, bulk semiconductor signal and carbon background. The recovered quantitative composition is validated by detailed Monte Carlo simulations and is confirmed by separate cross-sectional TEM EDX measurements of the nanostructures. This shows that SEM EDX measurements together with machine learning blind source separation processing could be successfully used for the nanostructures quantitative chemical composition determination.

Optical forces, torques, and force densities calculated at a microscopic level using a self-consistent hydrodynamics method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ding, Kun; Chan, C. T.

2018-04-01

The calculation of optical force density distribution inside a material is challenging at the nanoscale, where quantum and nonlocal effects emerge and macroscopic parameters such as permittivity become ill-defined. We demonstrate that the microscopic optical force density of nanoplasmonic systems can be defined and calculated using the microscopic fields generated using a self-consistent hydrodynamics model that includes quantum, nonlocal, and retardation effects. We demonstrate this technique by calculating the microscopic optical force density distributions and the optical binding force induced by external light on nanoplasmonic dimers. This approach works even in the limit when the nanoparticles are close enough to each other so that electron tunneling occurs, a regime in which classical electromagnetic approach fails completely. We discover that an uneven distribution of optical force density can lead to a light-induced spinning torque acting on individual particles. The hydrodynamics method offers us an accurate and efficient approach to study optomechanical behavior for plasmonic systems at the nanoscale.

Apparatus and methods for controlling electron microscope stages

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Duden, Thomas

Methods and apparatus for generating an image of a specimen with a microscope (e.g., TEM) are disclosed. In one aspect, the microscope may generally include a beam generator, a stage, a detector, and an image generator. A plurality of crystal parameters, which describe a plurality of properties of a crystal sample, are received. In a display associated with the microscope, an interactive control sphere based at least in part on the received crystal parameters and that is rotatable by a user to different sphere orientations is presented. The sphere includes a plurality of stage coordinates that correspond to a pluralitymore » of positions of the stage and a plurality of crystallographic pole coordinates that correspond to a plurality of polar orientations of the crystal sample. Movement of the sphere causes movement of the stage, wherein the stage coordinates move in conjunction with the crystallographic coordinates represented by pole positions so as to show a relationship between stage positions and the pole positions.« less

Scanning electron microscope fine tuning using four-bar piezoelectric actuated mechanism

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hatamleh, Khaled S.; Khasawneh, Qais A.; Al-Ghasem, Adnan; Jaradat, Mohammad A.; Sawaqed, Laith; Al-Shabi, Mohammad

2018-01-01

Scanning Electron Microscopes are extensively used for accurate micro/nano images exploring. Several strategies have been proposed to fine tune those microscopes in the past few years. This work presents a new fine tuning strategy of a scanning electron microscope sample table using four bar piezoelectric actuated mechanisms. The introduced paper presents an algorithm to find all possible inverse kinematics solutions of the proposed mechanism. In addition, another algorithm is presented to search for the optimal inverse kinematic solution. Both algorithms are used simultaneously by means of a simulation study to fine tune a scanning electron microscope sample table through a pre-specified circular or linear path of motion. Results of the study shows that, proposed algorithms were able to minimize the power required to drive the piezoelectric actuated mechanism by a ratio of 97.5% for all simulated paths of motion when compared to general non-optimized solution.

Method: automatic segmentation of mitochondria utilizing patch classification, contour pair classification, and automatically seeded level sets

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background While progress has been made to develop automatic segmentation techniques for mitochondria, there remains a need for more accurate and robust techniques to delineate mitochondria in serial blockface scanning electron microscopic data. Previously developed texture based methods are limited for solving this problem because texture alone is often not sufficient to identify mitochondria. This paper presents a new three-step method, the Cytoseg process, for automated segmentation of mitochondria contained in 3D electron microscopic volumes generated through serial block face scanning electron microscopic imaging. The method consists of three steps. The first is a random forest patch classification step operating directly on 2D image patches. The second step consists of contour-pair classification. At the final step, we introduce a method to automatically seed a level set operation with output from previous steps. Results We report accuracy of the Cytoseg process on three types of tissue and compare it to a previous method based on Radon-Like Features. At step 1, we show that the patch classifier identifies mitochondria texture but creates many false positive pixels. At step 2, our contour processing step produces contours and then filters them with a second classification step, helping to improve overall accuracy. We show that our final level set operation, which is automatically seeded with output from previous steps, helps to smooth the results. Overall, our results show that use of contour pair classification and level set operations improve segmentation accuracy beyond patch classification alone. We show that the Cytoseg process performs well compared to another modern technique based on Radon-Like Features. Conclusions We demonstrated that texture based methods for mitochondria segmentation can be enhanced with multiple steps that form an image processing pipeline. While we used a random-forest based patch classifier to recognize texture, it would be possible to replace this with other texture identifiers, and we plan to explore this in future work. PMID:22321695

Bottlenecks in bog pine multiplication by somatic embryogenesis and their visualization with the environmental scanning electron microscope.

PubMed

Vlašínová, Helena; Neděla, Vilem; Đorđević, Biljana; Havel, Ladislav

2017-07-01

Somatic embryogenesis (SE) is an important biotechnological technique used for the propagation of many pine species in vitro. However, in bog pine, one of the most endangered tree species in the Czech Republic, limitations were observed, which negatively influenced the development and further germination of somatic embryos. Although initiation frequency was very low-0.95 %, all obtained cell lines were subjected to maturation. The best responding cell line (BC1) was used and subjected to six different variants of the maturation media. The media on which the highest number of early-precotyledonary/cotyledonary somatic embryos was formed was supplemented with 121 μM abscisic acid (ABA) and with 6 % maltose. In the end of maturation experiments, different abnormalities in formation of somatic embryos were observed. For visualization and identification of abnormalities in meristem development during proliferation and maturation processes, the environmental scanning electron microscope was used. In comparison to the classical light microscope, the non-commercial environmental scanning electron microscope AQUASEM II has been found as a very useful tool for the quick recognition of apical meristem disruption and abnormal development. To our knowledge, this is the first report discussing somatic embryogenesis in bog pine. Based on this observation, the cultivation procedure could be enhanced and the method for SE of bog pine optimized.

Towards native-state imaging in biological context in the electron microscope

PubMed Central

Weston, Anne E.; Armer, Hannah E. J.

2009-01-01

Modern cell biology is reliant on light and fluorescence microscopy for analysis of cells, tissues and protein localisation. However, these powerful techniques are ultimately limited in resolution by the wavelength of light. Electron microscopes offer much greater resolution due to the shorter effective wavelength of electrons, allowing direct imaging of sub-cellular architecture. The harsh environment of the electron microscope chamber and the properties of the electron beam have led to complex chemical and mechanical preparation techniques, which distance biological samples from their native state and complicate data interpretation. Here we describe recent advances in sample preparation and instrumentation, which push the boundaries of high-resolution imaging. Cryopreparation, cryoelectron microscopy and environmental scanning electron microscopy strive to image samples in near native state. Advances in correlative microscopy and markers enable high-resolution localisation of proteins. Innovation in microscope design has pushed the boundaries of resolution to atomic scale, whilst automatic acquisition of high-resolution electron microscopy data through large volumes is finally able to place ultrastructure in biological context. PMID:19916039

Atom Chips on Direct Bonded Copper Substrates (Postprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-01-19

joining of a thin sheet of pure copper to a ceramic substrate14 and is commonly used in power electronics due to its high current handling and heat...Squires et al. Rev. Sci. Instrum. 82, 023101 (2011) FIG. 1. A scanning electron micrograph of the top view of test chip A. the photolithographically...the etching pro- cesses and masking methods were quantified using a scanning electron microscope. Two test chips (A and B) are presented below and are

Purchase of a Transmission Electron Microscope for Xavier University of Louisiana

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-05-15

imaging facility on the second floor of the Pharmacy Addition at Xavier University that already includes two scanning electron microscopes. The new TEM...is now in use. Xavier University has formally pledged to provide funds for the 1. REPORT DATE (DD-MM-YYYY) 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE 13. SUPPLEMENTARY...for Public Release; Distribution Unlimited Final Report: Purchase of a Transmission Electron Microscope for Xavier University of Louisiana The views

Precision shape modification of nanodevices with a low-energy electron beam

DOEpatents

Zettl, Alex; Yuzvinsky, Thomas David; Fennimore, Adam

2010-03-09

Methods of shape modifying a nanodevice by contacting it with a low-energy focused electron beam are disclosed here. In one embodiment, a nanodevice may be permanently reformed to a different geometry through an application of a deforming force and a low-energy focused electron beam. With the addition of an assist gas, material may be removed from the nanodevice through application of the low-energy focused electron beam. The independent methods of shape modification and material removal may be used either individually or simultaneously. Precision cuts with accuracies as high as 10 nm may be achieved through the use of precision low-energy Scanning Electron Microscope scan beams. These methods may be used in an automated system to produce nanodevices of very precise dimensions. These methods may be used to produce nanodevices of carbon-based, silicon-based, or other compositions by varying the assist gas.

ZnO/TiO2 nanocomposite rods synthesized by microwave-assisted method for humidity sensor application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ashok, CH.; Venkateswara Rao, K.

2014-12-01

The nanocomposite rods shows well known properties compared with nano structured materials for various applications like light-emitting diodes, electron field emitters, solar cells, optoelectronics, sensors, transparent conductors and fabrication of nano devices. Present paper investigates the properties of ZnO/TiO2 nanocomposite rods. The bi component of ZnO/TiO2 nanocomposite rods was synthesized by microwave-assisted method which is very simple, rapid and uniform in heating. The frequency of microwaves 2.45 GHz was used and temperature maintained 180 °C. Zinc acetate and titanium isopropoxide precursors were used in the preparation. The obtained ZnO/TiO2 nanocomposite rods were annealed at 500 °C and 600 °C. ZnO/TiO2 nanocomposite rods have been characterized by X-ray Diffraction (XRD) for average crystallite size and phase of the composite material, Particle Size Analyser (PSA) for average particle size, Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) for morphology study, Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometry (EDX) for elemental analysis, and Thermal Gravimetric and Differential Thermal Analysis (TG-DTA) for thermal property.

Comparative study viruses with computer-aided phase microscope AIRYSCAN

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tychinsky, Vladimir P.; Koufal, Georgy E.; Perevedentseva, Elena V.; Vyshenskaia, Tatiana V.

1996-12-01

Traditionally viruses are studied with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) after complicated procedure of sample preparation without the possibility to study it under natural conditions. We obtained images of viruses (Vaccinia virus, Rotavirus) and rickettsias (Rickettsia provazekii, Coxiella burnetti) in native state with computer-aided phase microscope airyscan -- the interference microscope of Linnik layout with phase modulation of the reference wave with dissector image tube as coordinate-sensitive photodetector and computer processing of phase image. A light source was the He-Ne laser. The main result is coincidence of dimensions and shape of phase images with available information concerning their morphology obtained with SEM and other methods. The fine structure of surface and nuclei is observed. This method may be applied for virus recognition and express identification, investigation of virus structure and the analysis of cell-virus interaction.

An overview of state-of-the-art image restoration in electron microscopy.

PubMed

Roels, J; Aelterman, J; Luong, H Q; Lippens, S; Pižurica, A; Saeys, Y; Philips, W

2018-06-08

In Life Science research, electron microscopy (EM) is an essential tool for morphological analysis at the subcellular level as it allows for visualization at nanometer resolution. However, electron micrographs contain image degradations such as noise and blur caused by electromagnetic interference, electron counting errors, magnetic lens imperfections, electron diffraction, etc. These imperfections in raw image quality are inevitable and hamper subsequent image analysis and visualization. In an effort to mitigate these artefacts, many electron microscopy image restoration algorithms have been proposed in the last years. Most of these methods rely on generic assumptions on the image or degradations and are therefore outperformed by advanced methods that are based on more accurate models. Ideally, a method will accurately model the specific degradations that fit the physical acquisition settings. In this overview paper, we discuss different electron microscopy image degradation solutions and demonstrate that dedicated artefact regularisation results in higher quality restoration and is applicable through recently developed probabilistic methods. © 2018 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2018 Royal Microscopical Society.

Low-energy electron irradiation induced top-surface nanocrystallization of amorphous carbon film

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Cheng; Fan, Xue; Diao, Dongfeng

2016-10-01

We report a low-energy electron irradiation method to nanocrystallize the top-surface of amorphous carbon film in electron cyclotron resonance plasma system. The nanostructure evolution of the carbon film as a function of electron irradiation density and time was examined by transmission electron microscope (TEM) and Raman spectroscopy. The results showed that the electron irradiation gave rise to the formation of sp2 nanocrystallites in the film top-surface within 4 nm thickness. The formation of sp2 nanocrystallite was ascribed to the inelastic electron scattering in the top-surface of carbon film. The frictional property of low-energy electron irradiated film was measured by a pin-on-disk tribometer. The sp2 nanocrystallized top-surface induced a lower friction coefficient than that of the original pure amorphous film. This method enables a convenient nanocrystallization of amorphous surface.

Nondestructive SEM for surface and subsurface wafer imaging

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Propst, Roy H.; Bagnell, C. Robert; Cole, Edward I., Jr.; Davies, Brian G.; Dibianca, Frank A.; Johnson, Darryl G.; Oxford, William V.; Smith, Craig A.

1987-01-01

The scanning electron microscope (SEM) is considered as a tool for both failure analysis as well as device characterization. A survey is made of various operational SEM modes and their applicability to image processing methods on semiconductor devices.

Determination of the Effective Detector Area of an Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Spectrometer at the Scanning Electron Microscope Using Experimental and Theoretical X-Ray Emission Yields.

PubMed

Procop, Mathias; Hodoroaba, Vasile-Dan; Terborg, Ralf; Berger, Dirk

2016-12-01

A method is proposed to determine the effective detector area for energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometers (EDS). Nowadays, detectors are available for a wide range of nominal areas ranging from 10 up to 150 mm2. However, it remains in most cases unknown whether this nominal area coincides with the "net active sensor area" that should be given according to the related standard ISO 15632, or with any other area of the detector device. Moreover, the specific geometry of EDS installation may further reduce a given detector area. The proposed method can be applied to most scanning electron microscope/EDS configurations. The basic idea consists in a comparison of the measured count rate with the count rate resulting from known X-ray yields of copper, titanium, or silicon. The method was successfully tested on three detectors with known effective area and applied further to seven spectrometers from different manufacturers. In most cases the method gave an effective area smaller than the area given in the detector description.

WC/Co composite surface structure and nano graphite precipitate induced by high current pulsed electron beam irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hao, S. Z.; Zhang, Y.; Xu, Y.; Gey, N.; Grosdidier, T.; Dong, C.

2013-11-01

High current pulsed electron beam (HCPEB) irradiation was conducted on a WC-6% Co hard alloy with accelerating voltage of 27 kV and pulse duration of 2.5 μs. The surface phase structure was examined by using glancing-angle X-ray diffraction (GAXRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) methods. The surface tribological properties were measured. It was found that after 20 pulses of HCPEB irradiation, the surface structure of WC/Co hard alloy was modified dramatically and composed of a mixture of nano-grained WC1-x, Co3W9C4, Co3W3C phases and graphite precipitate domains ˜50 nm. The friction coefficient of modified surface decreased to ˜0.38 from 0.6 of the initial state, and the wear rate reduced from 8.4 × 10-5 mm3/min to 6.3 × 10-6 mm3/min, showing a significant self-lubricating effect.

Measurement of Strain and Stress Distributions in Structural Materials by Electron Moiré Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kishimoto, Satoshi; Xing, Yougming; Tanaka, Yoshihisa; Kagawa, Yutaka

A method for measuring the strain and stress distributions in structural materials has been introduced. Fine model grids were fabricated by electron beam lithography, and an electron beam scan by a scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used as the master grid. Exposure of the electron beam scan onto the model grid in an SEM produced the electron beam moiré fringes of bright and dark parts caused by the different amounts of the secondary electrons per a primary electron. For demonstration, the micro-creep deformation of pure copper was observed. The creep strain distribution and the grain boundary sliding were analyzed. The residual strain and stress at the interface between a fiber and a matrix of a fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) were measured using the pushing-out test and this electron moiré method. Also, a non-uniform deformation around the boundary of 3-point bended laminated steel was observed and the strain distribution analyzed.

Design of a cathodoluminescence image generator using a Raspberry Pi coupled to a scanning electron microscope.

PubMed

Benítez, Alfredo; Santiago, Ulises; Sanchez, John E; Ponce, Arturo

2018-01-01

In this work, an innovative cathodoluminescence (CL) system is coupled to a scanning electron microscope and synchronized with a Raspberry Pi computer integrated with an innovative processing signal. The post-processing signal is based on a Python algorithm that correlates the CL and secondary electron (SE) images with a precise dwell time correction. For CL imaging, the emission signal is collected through an optical fiber and transduced to an electrical signal via a photomultiplier tube (PMT). CL Images are registered in a panchromatic mode and can be filtered using a monochromator connected between the optical fiber and the PMT to produce monochromatic CL images. The designed system has been employed to study ZnO samples prepared by electrical arc discharge and microwave methods. CL images are compared with SE images and chemical elemental mapping images to correlate the emission regions of the sample.

Design of a cathodoluminescence image generator using a Raspberry Pi coupled to a scanning electron microscope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Benítez, Alfredo; Santiago, Ulises; Sanchez, John E.; Ponce, Arturo

2018-01-01

In this work, an innovative cathodoluminescence (CL) system is coupled to a scanning electron microscope and synchronized with a Raspberry Pi computer integrated with an innovative processing signal. The post-processing signal is based on a Python algorithm that correlates the CL and secondary electron (SE) images with a precise dwell time correction. For CL imaging, the emission signal is collected through an optical fiber and transduced to an electrical signal via a photomultiplier tube (PMT). CL Images are registered in a panchromatic mode and can be filtered using a monochromator connected between the optical fiber and the PMT to produce monochromatic CL images. The designed system has been employed to study ZnO samples prepared by electrical arc discharge and microwave methods. CL images are compared with SE images and chemical elemental mapping images to correlate the emission regions of the sample.

Plasmon-resonance-enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity of Ag quantum dots/TiO2 microspheres for methyl orange degradation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Xin; Shang, Liwei; Wang, Dongjun; An, Li; Li, Zhonghua; Liu, Jiawen; Shen, Jun

2018-06-01

We successfully prepared Ag quantum dots modified TiO2 microspheres by facile solvothermal and calcination method. The as-prepared Ag quantum dots/TiO2 microspheres were characterized by scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. The Ag quantum dots/TiO2 photocatalyst showed excellent visible light absorption and efficient photocatalytic activity for methyl orange degradation. And the sample with the molar ratio of 0.05 (Ag to Ti) showed the best visible light photocatalytic activity for methyl orange degradation, mainly because of the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) effects of Ag quantum dots to generate electron and hole pairs for enhanced visible light photocatalysis. Finally, possible visible light photocatalytic mechanism of Ag quantum dots/TiO2 microspheres for methyl orange degradation was proposed in detail.

Effect of reduced graphene oxide-carbon nanotubes hybrid nanofillers in mechanical properties of polymer nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sa, Kadambinee; Mahakul, Prakash C.; Subramanyam, B. V. R. S.; Raiguru, Jagatpati; Das, Sonali; Alam, Injamul; Mahanandia, Pitamber

2018-03-01

Graphene and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have tremendous interest as reinforcing fillers due to their excellent physical properties. However, their reinforcing effect in polymer matrix is limited due to agglomeration of graphene and CNTs within the polymer matrix. Mechanical properties by the admixture of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and CNTs in Poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) prepared by solution mixing method has been investigated. The prepared samples are characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and Raman spectroscopy. The hybrid composite shows improvement in the mechanical properties compared to rGO/PMMA and MWCNTs/PMMA composites due to better interaction between rGO-MWCNTs and polymer matrix.

Electron Microscope Center Opens at Berkeley.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Robinson, Arthur L.

1981-01-01

A 1.5-MeV High Voltage Electron Microscope has been installed at the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory which will help materials scientists and biologists study samples in more true-to-life situations. A 1-MeV Atomic Resolution Microscope will be installed at the same location in two years which will allow scientists to distinguish atoms. (DS)

High-resolution electron microscope observation of voids in amorphous Ge.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Donovan, T. M.; Heinemann, K.

1971-01-01

Electron micrographs have been obtained which clearly show the existence of a void network in amorphous Ge films formed at substrate temperatures of 25 and 150 C, and the absence of a void network in films formed at higher substrate temperatures of 200 and 250 C. These results correlate quite well with density measurements and predictions of void densities by indirect methods.

Specimen Holder for Analytical Electron Microscopes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clanton, U. S.; Isaacs, A. M.; Mackinnon, I.

1985-01-01

Reduces spectral contamination by spurious X-ray. Specimen holder made of compressed carbon, securely retains standard electron microscope grid (disk) 3 mm in diameter and absorbs backscattered electrons that otherwise generate spurious X-rays. Since holder inexpensive, dedicated to single specimen when numerous samples examined.

Isolation and Structural Studies of Mitochondria from Pea Roots.

PubMed

Vishwakarma, Abhaypratap; Gupta, Kapuganti Jagadis

2017-01-01

For structural and respiratory studies, isolation of intact and active mitochondria is essential. Here, we describe an isolation method which gave good yield and intact mitochondria from 2-week-old pea (Pisum sativum) roots grown hydroponically under standard growth conditions. We used Percoll gradient centrifugation for this isolation procedure. The yield of purified mitochondria was 50 μg/g FW. Isolated mitochondria maintained their structure which was observed by using MitoTracker green in confocal microscope and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Intact mitochondria are clearly visible in SCM images. Taken together this isolation method can be used for physiological and microscopic studies on mitochondria.

3D Diffraction Microscope Provides a First Deep View

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miao, Jianwei

2005-03-01

When a coherent diffraction pattern is sampled at a spacing sufficiently finer than the Bragg peak frequency (i.e. the inverse of the sample size), the phase information is in principle encoded inside the diffraction pattern, and can be directly retrieved by using an iterative process. In combination of this oversampling phasing method with either coherent X-rays or electrons, a novel form of diffraction microscopy has recently been developed to image nanoscale materials and biological structures. In this talk, I will present the principle of the oversampling method, discuss the first experimental demonstration of this microscope, and illustrate some applications in nanoscience and biology.

Microscopic Lagrangian description of warm plasmas. IV - Macroscopic approximation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kim, H.; Crawford, F. W.

1983-01-01

The averaged-Lagrangian method is applied to linear wave propagation and nonlinear three-wave interaction in a warm magnetoplasma, in the macroscopic approximation. The microscopic Lagrangian treated by Kim and Crawford (1977) and by Galloway and Crawford (1977) is first expanded to third order in perturbation. Velocity integration is then carried out, before applying Hamilton's principle to obtain a general description of wave propagation and coupling. The results are specialized to the case of interaction between two electron plasma waves and an Alfven wave. The method is shown to be more powerful than the alternative possibility of working from the beginning with a macroscopic Lagrangian density.

Aberration corrected STEM by means of diffraction gratings

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Linck, Martin; Ercius, Peter A.; Pierce, Jordan S.

In the past 15 years, the advent of aberration correction technology in electron microscopy has enabled materials analysis on the atomic scale. This is made possible by precise arrangements of multipole electrodes and magnetic solenoids to compensate the aberrations inherent to any focusing element of an electron microscope. In this paper, we describe an alternative method to correct for the spherical aberration of the objective lens in scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) using a passive, nanofabricated diffractive optical element. This holographic device is installed in the probe forming aperture of a conventional electron microscope and can be designed to removemore » arbitrarily complex aberrations from the electron's wave front. In this work, we show a proof-of-principle experiment that demonstrates successful correction of the spherical aberration in STEM by means of such a grating corrector (GCOR). Our GCOR enables us to record aberration-corrected high-resolution high-angle annular dark field (HAADF-) STEM images, although yet without advancement in probe current and resolution. Finally, improvements in this technology could provide an economical solution for aberration-corrected high-resolution STEM in certain use scenarios.« less

ELECTRON MICROSCOPE AND X-RAY DIFFRACTION STUDIES ON A HOMOLOGOUS SERIES OF SATURATED PHOSPHATIDYLCHOLINES.

PubMed

ELBERS, P F; VERVERGAERT, P H

1965-05-01

Three homologous saturated phosphatidylcholines were studied by electron microscopy after tricomplex fixation. The results are compared with those obtained by x-ray diffraction analysis of the same and some other homologous compounds, in the dry crystalline state and after tricomplex fixation. By electron microscopy alternating dark and light bands are observed which are likely to correspond to phosphatide double layers. X-Ray diffraction reveals the presence of lamellar structures of regular spacing. The layer spacings obtained by both methods are in good agreement. From the electron micrographs the width of the polar parts of the double layers can be derived directly. The width of the carboxylglycerylphosphorylcholine moiety of the layers is found by extrapolating the x-ray diffraction data to zero chain length of the fatty acids. When from this width the contribution of the carboxylglyceryl part of the molecules is subtracted, again we find good agreement with the electron microscope measurements. An attempt has been made to account for the different layer spacings measured in terms of orientation of the molecules within the double layers.

Aberration corrected STEM by means of diffraction gratings

DOE PAGES

Linck, Martin; Ercius, Peter A.; Pierce, Jordan S.; ...

2017-06-12

In the past 15 years, the advent of aberration correction technology in electron microscopy has enabled materials analysis on the atomic scale. This is made possible by precise arrangements of multipole electrodes and magnetic solenoids to compensate the aberrations inherent to any focusing element of an electron microscope. In this paper, we describe an alternative method to correct for the spherical aberration of the objective lens in scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) using a passive, nanofabricated diffractive optical element. This holographic device is installed in the probe forming aperture of a conventional electron microscope and can be designed to removemore » arbitrarily complex aberrations from the electron's wave front. In this work, we show a proof-of-principle experiment that demonstrates successful correction of the spherical aberration in STEM by means of such a grating corrector (GCOR). Our GCOR enables us to record aberration-corrected high-resolution high-angle annular dark field (HAADF-) STEM images, although yet without advancement in probe current and resolution. Finally, improvements in this technology could provide an economical solution for aberration-corrected high-resolution STEM in certain use scenarios.« less

Development of a SEM-based low-energy in-line electron holography microscope for individual particle imaging.

PubMed

Adaniya, Hidehito; Cheung, Martin; Cassidy, Cathal; Yamashita, Masao; Shintake, Tsumoru

2018-05-01

A new SEM-based in-line electron holography microscope has been under development. The microscope utilizes conventional SEM and BF-STEM functionality to allow for rapid searching of the specimen of interest, seamless interchange between SEM, BF-STEM and holographic imaging modes, and makes use of coherent low-energy in-line electron holography to obtain low-dose, high-contrast images of light element materials. We report here an overview of the instrumentation and first experimental results on gold nano-particles and carbon nano-fibers for system performance tests. Reconstructed images obtained from the holographic imaging mode of the new microscope show substantial image contrast and resolution compared to those acquired by SEM and BF-STEM modes, demonstrating the feasibility of high-contrast imaging via low-energy in-line electron holography. The prospect of utilizing the new microscope to image purified biological specimens at the individual particle level is discussed and electron optical issues and challenges to further improve resolution and contrast are considered. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Markov Random Field Based Automatic Image Alignment for ElectronTomography

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Moussavi, Farshid; Amat, Fernando; Comolli, Luis R.

2007-11-30

Cryo electron tomography (cryo-ET) is the primary method for obtaining 3D reconstructions of intact bacteria, viruses, and complex molecular machines ([7],[2]). It first flash freezes a specimen in a thin layer of ice, and then rotates the ice sheet in a transmission electron microscope (TEM) recording images of different projections through the sample. The resulting images are aligned and then back projected to form the desired 3-D model. The typical resolution of biological electron microscope is on the order of 1 nm per pixel which means that small imprecision in the microscope's stage or lenses can cause large alignment errors.more » To enable a high precision alignment, biologists add a small number of spherical gold beads to the sample before it is frozen. These beads generate high contrast dots in the image that can be tracked across projections. Each gold bead can be seen as a marker with a fixed location in 3D, which provides the reference points to bring all the images to a common frame as in the classical structure from motion problem. A high accuracy alignment is critical to obtain a high resolution tomogram (usually on the order of 5-15nm resolution). While some methods try to automate the task of tracking markers and aligning the images ([8],[4]), they require user intervention if the SNR of the image becomes too low. Unfortunately, cryogenic electron tomography (or cryo-ET) often has poor SNR, since the samples are relatively thick (for TEM) and the restricted electron dose usually results in projections with SNR under 0 dB. This paper shows that formulating this problem as a most-likely estimation task yields an approach that is able to automatically align with high precision cryo-ET datasets using inference in graphical models. This approach has been packaged into a publicly available software called RAPTOR-Robust Alignment and Projection estimation for Tomographic Reconstruction.« less

Electron tomography simulator with realistic 3D phantom for evaluation of acquisition, alignment and reconstruction methods.

PubMed

Wan, Xiaohua; Katchalski, Tsvi; Churas, Christopher; Ghosh, Sreya; Phan, Sebastien; Lawrence, Albert; Hao, Yu; Zhou, Ziying; Chen, Ruijuan; Chen, Yu; Zhang, Fa; Ellisman, Mark H

2017-05-01

Because of the significance of electron microscope tomography in the investigation of biological structure at nanometer scales, ongoing improvement efforts have been continuous over recent years. This is particularly true in the case of software developments. Nevertheless, verification of improvements delivered by new algorithms and software remains difficult. Current analysis tools do not provide adaptable and consistent methods for quality assessment. This is particularly true with images of biological samples, due to image complexity, variability, low contrast and noise. We report an electron tomography (ET) simulator with accurate ray optics modeling of image formation that includes curvilinear trajectories through the sample, warping of the sample and noise. As a demonstration of the utility of our approach, we have concentrated on providing verification of the class of reconstruction methods applicable to wide field images of stained plastic-embedded samples. Accordingly, we have also constructed digital phantoms derived from serial block face scanning electron microscope images. These phantoms are also easily modified to include alignment features to test alignment algorithms. The combination of more realistic phantoms with more faithful simulations facilitates objective comparison of acquisition parameters, alignment and reconstruction algorithms and their range of applicability. With proper phantoms, this approach can also be modified to include more complex optical models, including distance-dependent blurring and phase contrast functions, such as may occur in cryotomography. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Extended morphological processing: a practical method for automatic spot detection of biological markers from microscopic images.

PubMed

Kimori, Yoshitaka; Baba, Norio; Morone, Nobuhiro

2010-07-08

A reliable extraction technique for resolving multiple spots in light or electron microscopic images is essential in investigations of the spatial distribution and dynamics of specific proteins inside cells and tissues. Currently, automatic spot extraction and characterization in complex microscopic images poses many challenges to conventional image processing methods. A new method to extract closely located, small target spots from biological images is proposed. This method starts with a simple but practical operation based on the extended morphological top-hat transformation to subtract an uneven background. The core of our novel approach is the following: first, the original image is rotated in an arbitrary direction and each rotated image is opened with a single straight line-segment structuring element. Second, the opened images are unified and then subtracted from the original image. To evaluate these procedures, model images of simulated spots with closely located targets were created and the efficacy of our method was compared to that of conventional morphological filtering methods. The results showed the better performance of our method. The spots of real microscope images can be quantified to confirm that the method is applicable in a given practice. Our method achieved effective spot extraction under various image conditions, including aggregated target spots, poor signal-to-noise ratio, and large variations in the background intensity. Furthermore, it has no restrictions with respect to the shape of the extracted spots. The features of our method allow its broad application in biological and biomedical image information analysis.

75 FR 43918 - National Center for Toxicological Research, et al.; Notice of Consolidated Decision on...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-07-27

... Research, et al.; Notice of Consolidated Decision on Applications for Duty-Free Entry of Electron...: National Center for Toxicological Research, (USFDA), Jefferson, AK 72079. Instrument: Electron Microscope.... Applicant: University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903. Instrument: Electron Microscope. Manufacturer...

Scanning Electron Microscope Observations of Marine Microorganisms on Surfaces Coated with Antifouling Paints.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-06-01

sessile marine inverte- brates in Monterey harbor. Veliger 17 (supplement): 1-35. 1977. The nature of primary organic films in the marine environment and...I A10A4h 605 NAVAL POSTGRADUATE SCHOOL MONTEREY CA F/S 11/3 SCANING ELECTRON MICROSCOPE OBSERVATIONS OF MARINE MICROORANI-E-C(U) UNLSSIFIED N*2...Scanning Electron Microscope Observations Master’s thesis; of Marine Microorganisms on Surfaces June 1981 Coated with Ant ifouling Paints 6.PERFORMING

Evaluation of Enterococcus faecalis adhesion, penetration, and method to prevent the penetration of Enterococcus faecalis into root cementum: Confocal laser scanning microscope and scanning electron microscope analysis.

PubMed

Halkai, Rahul S; Hegde, Mithra N; Halkai, Kiran R

2016-01-01

To ascertain the role of Enterococcus faecalis in persistent infection and a possible method to prevent the penetration of E. faecalis into root cementum. One hundred and twenty human single-rooted extracted teeth divided into five groups. Group I (control): intact teeth, Group II: no apical treatment done, Group III divided into two subgroups. In Groups IIIa and IIIb, root apex treated with lactic acid of acidic and neutral pH, respectively. Group IV: apical root cementum exposed to lactic acid and roughened to mimic the apical resorption. Group V: apical treatment done same as Group IV and root-end filling done using mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA). Apical one-third of all samples immersed in E. faecalis broth for 8 weeks followed by bone morphogenetic protein and obturation and again immersed into broth for 8 weeks. Teeth split into two halves and observed under confocal laser scanning microscope and scanning electron microscope, organism identified by culture and polymerase chain reaction techniques. Adhesion and penetration was observed in Group IIIa and Group IV. Only adhesion in Group II and IIIB and no adhesion and penetration in Group I and V. Adhesion and penetration of E. faecalis into root cementum providing a long-term nidus for subsequent infection are the possible reason for persistent infection and root-end filling with MTA prevents the adhesion and penetration.

Relative merits and limiting factors for x-ray and electron microscopy of thick, hydrated organic materials.

PubMed

Du, Ming; Jacobsen, Chris

2018-01-01

Electron and x-ray microscopes allow one to image the entire, unlabeled structure of hydrated materials at a resolution well beyond what visible light microscopes can achieve. However, both approaches involve ionizing radiation, so that radiation damage must be considered as one of the limits to imaging. Drawing upon earlier work, we describe here a unified approach to estimating the image contrast (and thus the required exposure and corresponding radiation dose) in both x-ray and electron microscopy. This approach accounts for factors such as plural and inelastic scattering, and (in electron microscopy) the use of energy filters to obtain so-called "zero loss" images. As expected, it shows that electron microscopy offers lower dose for specimens thinner than about 1 µm (such as for studies of macromolecules, viruses, bacteria and archaebacteria, and thin sectioned material), while x-ray microscopy offers superior characteristics for imaging thicker specimen such as whole eukaryotic cells, thick-sectioned tissues, and organs. The required radiation dose scales strongly as a function of the desired spatial resolution, allowing one to understand the limits of live and frozen hydrated specimen imaging. Finally, we consider the factors limiting x-ray microscopy of thicker materials, suggesting that specimens as thick as a whole mouse brain can be imaged with x-ray microscopes without significant image degradation should appropriate image reconstruction methods be identified. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Choice and maintenance of equipment for electron crystallography.

PubMed

Mills, Deryck J; Vonck, Janet

2013-01-01

The choice of equipment for an electron crystallography laboratory will ultimately be determined by the available budget; nevertheless, the ideal lab will have two electron microscopes: a dedicated 300 kV cryo-EM with a field emission gun and a smaller LaB(6) machine for screening. The high-end machine should be equipped with photographic film or a very large CCD or CMOS camera for 2D crystal data collection; the screening microscope needs a mid-size CCD for rapid evaluation of crystal samples. The microscope room installations should provide adequate space and a special environment that puts no restrictions on the collection of high-resolution data. Equipment for specimen preparation includes a carbon coater, glow discharge unit, light microscope, plunge freezer, and liquid nitrogen containers and storage dewars. When photographic film is to be used, additional requirements are a film desiccator, dark room, optical diffractometer, and a film scanner. Having the electron microscopes and ancillary equipment well maintained and always in optimum condition facilitates the production of high-quality data.

Method for observation of deembedded sections of fish gonad by scanning electron microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mao, Lian-Ju

2000-09-01

This article reports a method for examining the intracellular structure of fish gonads using a scanning electron microscope(SEM). The specimen preparation procedure is similar to that for transmission electron microscopy wherein samples cut into semi-thin sections are fixed and embedded in plastic. The embedment matrix was removed by solvents. Risen-free specimens could be observed by SEM. The morphology of matured sperms in the gonad was very clear, and the oocyte internal structures appeared in three-dimensional images. Spheroidal nucleoli and yolk vesicles and several bundles of filaments adhered on the nucleoli could be viewed by SEM for the first time.

Investigation of low-loss spectra and near-edge fine structure of polymers by PEELS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Heckmann, W.

Transmission electron microscopy has changed from a purely imaging method to an analytical method. This has been facilitated particularly by equipping electron microscopes with energy filters and with parallel electron energy loss spectrometers (PEELS). Because of their relatively high energy resolution (1 to 2 eV) they provide information not only on the elements present but also on the type of bonds between the molecular groups. Polymers are radiation sensitive and the molecular bonds change as the spectrum is being recorded. This can be observed with PEEL spectrometers that are able to record spectra with high sensitivity and in rapid succession.

Vibrational spectroscopy in the electron microscope.

PubMed

Krivanek, Ondrej L; Lovejoy, Tracy C; Dellby, Niklas; Aoki, Toshihiro; Carpenter, R W; Rez, Peter; Soignard, Emmanuel; Zhu, Jiangtao; Batson, Philip E; Lagos, Maureen J; Egerton, Ray F; Crozier, Peter A

2014-10-09

Vibrational spectroscopies using infrared radiation, Raman scattering, neutrons, low-energy electrons and inelastic electron tunnelling are powerful techniques that can analyse bonding arrangements, identify chemical compounds and probe many other important properties of materials. The spatial resolution of these spectroscopies is typically one micrometre or more, although it can reach a few tens of nanometres or even a few ångströms when enhanced by the presence of a sharp metallic tip. If vibrational spectroscopy could be combined with the spatial resolution and flexibility of the transmission electron microscope, it would open up the study of vibrational modes in many different types of nanostructures. Unfortunately, the energy resolution of electron energy loss spectroscopy performed in the electron microscope has until now been too poor to allow such a combination. Recent developments that have improved the attainable energy resolution of electron energy loss spectroscopy in a scanning transmission electron microscope to around ten millielectronvolts now allow vibrational spectroscopy to be carried out in the electron microscope. Here we describe the innovations responsible for the progress, and present examples of applications in inorganic and organic materials, including the detection of hydrogen. We also demonstrate that the vibrational signal has both high- and low-spatial-resolution components, that the first component can be used to map vibrational features at nanometre-level resolution, and that the second component can be used for analysis carried out with the beam positioned just outside the sample--that is, for 'aloof' spectroscopy that largely avoids radiation damage.

Contour metrology using critical dimension atomic force microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Orji, Ndubuisi G.; Dixson, Ronald G.; Vladár, András E.; Ming, Bin; Postek, Michael T.

2012-03-01

The critical dimension atomic force microscope (CD-AFM), which is used as a reference instrument in lithography metrology, has been proposed as a complementary instrument for contour measurement and verification. Although data from CD-AFM is inherently three dimensional, the planar two-dimensional data required for contour metrology is not easily extracted from the top-down CD-AFM data. This is largely due to the limitations of the CD-AFM method for controlling the tip position and scanning. We describe scanning techniques and profile extraction methods to obtain contours from CD-AFM data. We also describe how we validated our technique, and explain some of its limitations. Potential sources of error for this approach are described, and a rigorous uncertainty model is presented. Our objective is to show which data acquisition and analysis methods could yield optimum contour information while preserving some of the strengths of CD-AFM metrology. We present comparison of contours extracted using our technique to those obtained from the scanning electron microscope (SEM), and the helium ion microscope (HIM).

Optical sectioning and 3D reconstructions as an alternative to scanning electron microscopy for analysis of cell shape.

PubMed

Landis, Jacob B; Ventura, Kayla L; Soltis, Douglas E; Soltis, Pamela S; Oppenheimer, David G

2015-04-01

Visualizing flower epidermal cells is often desirable for investigating the interaction between flowers and their pollinators, in addition to the broader range of ecological interactions in which flowers are involved. We developed a protocol for visualizing petal epidermal cells without the limitations of the commonly used method of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Flower material was collected and fixed in glutaraldehyde, followed by dehydration in an ethanol series. Flowers were dissected to collect petals, and subjected to a Histo-Clear series to remove the cuticle. Material was then stained with aniline blue, mounted on microscope slides, and imaged using a compound fluorescence microscope to obtain optical sections that were reconstructed into a 3D image. This optical sectioning method yielded high-quality images of the petal epidermal cells with virtually no damage to cells. Flowers were processed in larger batches than are possible using common SEM methods. Also, flower size was not a limiting factor as often observed in SEM studies. Flowers up to 5 cm in length were processed and mounted for visualization. This method requires no special equipment for sample preparation prior to imaging and should be seen as an alternative method to SEM.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yashchuk, V. V., E-mail: VVYashchuk@lbl.gov; Chan, E. R.; Lacey, I.

We present a modulation transfer function (MTF) calibration method based on binary pseudo-random (BPR) one-dimensional sequences and two-dimensional arrays as an effective method for spectral characterization in the spatial frequency domain of a broad variety of metrology instrumentation, including interferometric microscopes, scatterometers, phase shifting Fizeau interferometers, scanning and transmission electron microscopes, and at this time, x-ray microscopes. The inherent power spectral density of BPR gratings and arrays, which has a deterministic white-noise-like character, allows a direct determination of the MTF with a uniform sensitivity over the entire spatial frequency range and field of view of an instrument. We demonstrate themore » MTF calibration and resolution characterization over the full field of a transmission soft x-ray microscope using a BPR multilayer (ML) test sample with 2.8 nm fundamental layer thickness. We show that beyond providing a direct measurement of the microscope’s MTF, tests with the BPRML sample can be used to fine tune the instrument’s focal distance. Our results confirm the universality of the method that makes it applicable to a large variety of metrology instrumentation with spatial wavelength bandwidths from a few nanometers to hundreds of millimeters.« less

Design and performance of a beetle-type double-tip scanning tunneling microscope

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jaschinsky, Philipp; Coenen, Peter; Pirug, Gerhard

2006-09-15

A combination of a double-tip scanning tunneling microscope with a scanning electron microscope in ultrahigh vacuum environment is presented. The compact beetle-type design made it possible to integrate two independently driven scanning tunneling microscopes in a small space. Moreover, an additional level for coarse movement allows the decoupling of the translation and approach of the tunneling tip. The position of the two tips can be controlled from the millimeter scale down to 50 nm with the help of an add-on electron microscope. The instrument is capable of atomic resolution imaging with each tip.

Technology-Enhanced Pathology Education: Nigerian Medical Students Perspectives

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vhriterhire, Raymond A.; Orkuma, Joseph A.; Jegede, Olushola O.; Omotosho, Ayodele J.; Adekwu, Amali

2016-01-01

The delivery of pathology education traditionally through instructor centred didactic lectures, small group tutorials, and practical demonstrations using microscope glass slides, gross pot specimens and autopsy sessions, is paving way for electronic learner-centred methods. Successful adoption and implementation of rapidly advancing educational…

About the contrast of δ' precipitates in bulk Al-Cu-Li alloys in reflection mode with a field-emission scanning electron microscope at low accelerating voltage.

PubMed

Brodusch, Nicolas; Voisard, Frédéric; Gauvin, Raynald

2017-11-01

Characterising the impact of lithium additions in the precipitation sequence in Al-Li-Cu alloys is important to control the strengthening of the final material. Since now, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) at high beam voltage has been the technique of choice to monitor the size and spatial distribution of δ' precipitates (Al 3 Li). Here we report on the imaging of the δ' phase in such alloys using backscattered electrons (BSE) and low accelerating voltage in a high-resolution field-emission scanning electron microscope. By applying low-energy Ar + ion milling to the surface after mechanical polishing (MP), the MP-induced corroded layers were efficiently removed and permitted the δ's to be visible with a limited impact on the observed microstructure. The resulting BSE contrast between the δ's and the Al matrix was compared with that obtained using Monte Carlo modelling. The artefacts possibly resulting from the sample preparation procedure were reviewed and discussed and permitted to confirm that these precipitates were effectively the metastable δ's. The method described in this report necessitates less intensive sample preparation than that required for TEM and provides a much larger field of view and an easily interpretable contrast compared to the transmission techniques. © 2017 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2017 Royal Microscopical Society.

77 FR 71776 - Ohio University, et al.; Notice of Consolidated Decision on Applications for Duty-Free Entry of...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-12-04

... Consolidated Decision on Applications for Duty-Free Entry of Electron Microscope This is a decision... Stocker Center, Athens, OH 45701. Instrument: Electron Microscope. Manufacturer: JEOL Ltd., Japan... North Carolina Wilmington, 601 South College Road, Wilmington, NC 28403-5915. Instrument: Electron...

Influence of mechanical noise inside a scanning electron microscope.

PubMed

de Faria, Marcelo Gaudenzi; Haddab, Yassine; Le Gorrec, Yann; Lutz, Philippe

2015-04-01

The scanning electron microscope is becoming a popular tool to perform tasks that require positioning, manipulation, characterization, and assembly of micro-components. However, some of these applications require a higher level of performance with respect to dynamics and precision of positioning. One limiting factor is the presence of unidentified noises and disturbances. This work aims to study the influence of mechanical disturbances generated by the environment and by the microscope, identifying how these can affect elements in the vacuum chamber. To achieve this objective, a dedicated setup, including a high-resolution vibrometer, was built inside the microscope. This work led to the identification and quantification of main disturbances and noise sources acting on a scanning electron microscope. Furthermore, the effects of external acoustic excitations were analysed. Potential applications of these results include noise compensation and real-time control for high accuracy tasks.

Development of scanning electron and x-ray microscope

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Matsumura, Tomokazu, E-mail: tomokzau.matsumura@etd.hpk.co.jp; Hirano, Tomohiko, E-mail: tomohiko.hirano@etd.hpk.co.jp; Suyama, Motohiro, E-mail: suyama@etd.hpk.co.jp

We have developed a new type of microscope possessing a unique feature of observing both scanning electron and X-ray images under one unit. Unlike former X-ray microscopes using SEM [1, 2], this scanning electron and X-ray (SELX) microscope has a sample in vacuum, thus it enables one to observe a surface structure of a sample by SEM mode, to search the region of interest, and to observe an X-ray image which transmits the region. For the X-ray observation, we have been focusing on the soft X-ray region from 280 eV to 3 keV to observe some bio samples and softmore » materials. The resolutions of SEM and X-ray modes are 50 nm and 100 nm, respectively, at the electron energy of 7 keV.« less

Examination of Surveyor 3 parts with the scanning electron microscope and electron microprobe

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chodos, A. A.; Devaney, J. R.; Evens, K. C.

1972-01-01

Two screws and two washers, several small chips of tubing, and a fiber removed from a third screw were examined with the scanning electron microscope and the electron microprobe. The purpose of the examination was to determine the nature of the material on the surface of these samples and to search for the presence of meteoritic material.

Investigations of the drift mobility of carriers and density of states in nanocrystalline CdS thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Baljinder; Singh, Janpreet; Kaur, Jagdish; Moudgil, R. K.; Tripathi, S. K.

2016-06-01

Nanocrystalline Cadmium Sulfide (nc-CdS) thin films have been prepared on well-cleaned glass substrate at room temperature (300 K) by thermal evaporation technique using inert gas condensation (IGC) method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis reveals that the films crystallize in hexagonal structure with preferred orientation along [002] direction. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Transmission electron microscope (TEM) studies reveal that grains are spherical in shape and uniformly distributed over the glass substrates. The optical band gap of the film is estimated from the transmittance spectra. Electrical parameters such as Hall coefficient, carrier type, carrier concentration, resistivity and mobility are determined using Hall measurements at 300 K. Transit time and mobility are estimated from Time of Flight (TOF) transient photocurrent technique in gap cell configuration. The measured values of electron drift mobility from TOF and Hall measurements are of the same order. Constant Photocurrent Method in ac-mode (ac-CPM) is used to measure the absorption spectra in low absorption region. By applying derivative method, we have converted the measured absorption data into a density of states (DOS) distribution in the lower part of the energy gap. The value of Urbach energy, steepness parameter and density of defect states have been calculated from the absorption and DOS spectra.

The synthesis of Ag/polypyrrole coaxial nanocables via ion adsorption method using different oxidants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qiu, Teng; Xie, Huxiao; Zhang, Jiangru; Zahoor, Amad; Li, Xiaoyu

2011-03-01

Ag/polypyrrole (PPy) coaxial nanocables (NCs) were synthesized by an ion adsorption method. In this method, the pre-made Ag nanowires (NWs) were dispersed in the aqueous solution of copper acetate (Cu(Ac)2), and the Cu2+ ions adsorbed onto the surface of Ag NWs can oxidize pyrrole monomers to polymerize into uniform PPy sheath outside Ag NWs after the Cu(Ac)2-treated Ag NWs were re-dispersed in the aqueous solution of pyrrole. The morphology of NCs was characterized by transmission electron microscope (TEM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The relationship between the thickness of polymer sheath and the concentration of Cu(Ac)2 was established. As Cu(Ac)2 which served as the oxidant can also be replaced by AgNO3 in this synthesis, the differences on the structure of polymer sheath caused by different oxidants were studied by surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HR-TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Comparing with the characterization results of Ag/PPy NCs synthesized using AgNO3 as the oxidant which indicates the random arrangement of PPy chains at the interface between polymer sheath and Ag NWs, PPy chain oxidized by Cu2+ tends to show a relatively ordered conformation at the interface with the pyrrole rings identically taking the plane vertical to the surface of Ag NWs. In addition, although the main part of the polymer sheath was composed of PPy whatever kind of oxidant was used, the sheath of the NCs oxidized by Cu2+ is typical for the existence of Cu(I)-pyrrole coordinate structures with strong Cu(I)-N bond signal shown in XPS characterization.

Large volume serial section tomography by Xe Plasma FIB dual beam microscopy.

PubMed

Burnett, T L; Kelley, R; Winiarski, B; Contreras, L; Daly, M; Gholinia, A; Burke, M G; Withers, P J

2016-02-01

Ga(+) Focused Ion Beam-Scanning Electron Microscopes (FIB-SEM) have revolutionised the level of microstructural information that can be recovered in 3D by block face serial section tomography (SST), as well as enabling the site-specific removal of smaller regions for subsequent transmission electron microscope (TEM) examination. However, Ga(+) FIB material removal rates limit the volumes and depths that can be probed to dimensions in the tens of microns range. Emerging Xe(+) Plasma Focused Ion Beam-Scanning Electron Microscope (PFIB-SEM) systems promise faster removal rates. Here we examine the potential of the method for large volume serial section tomography as applied to bainitic steel and WC-Co hard metals. Our studies demonstrate that with careful control of milling parameters precise automated serial sectioning can be achieved with low levels of milling artefacts at removal rates some 60× faster. Volumes that are hundreds of microns in dimension have been collected using fully automated SST routines in feasible timescales (<24h) showing good grain orientation contrast and capturing microstructural features at the tens of nanometres to the tens of microns scale. Accompanying electron back scattered diffraction (EBSD) maps show high indexing rates suggesting low levels of surface damage. Further, under high current Ga(+) FIB milling WC-Co is prone to amorphisation of WC surface layers and phase transformation of the Co phase, neither of which have been observed at PFIB currents as high as 60nA at 30kV. Xe(+) PFIB dual beam microscopes promise to radically extend our capability for 3D tomography, 3D EDX, 3D EBSD as well as correlative tomography. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of Silicon in U-10Mo Alloy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kautz, Elizabeth J.; Devaraj, Arun; Kovarik, Libor

2017-08-31

This document details a method for evaluating the effect of silicon impurity content on U-10Mo alloys. Silicon concentration in U-10Mo alloys has been shown to impact the following: volume fraction of precipitate phases, effective density of the final alloy, and 235-U enrichment in the gamma-UMo matrix. This report presents a model for calculating these quantities as a function of Silicon concentration, which along with fuel foil characterization data, will serve as a reference for quality control of the U-10Mo final alloy Si content. Additionally, detailed characterization using scanning electron microscope imaging, transmission electron microscope diffraction, and atom probe tomography showedmore » that Silicon impurities present in U-10Mo alloys form a Si-rich precipitate phase.« less

Evaluation of Encapsulated Inhibitor for Autonomous Corrosion Protection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnsey, M. N.; Li, W.; Buhrow, J. W.; Calle, L. M.; Pearman, B. P.; Zhang, X.

2015-01-01

This work concerns the development of smart coating technologies based on microencapsulation for the autonomous control of corrosion. Microencapsulation allows the incorporation of corrosion inhibitors into coating which provides protection through corrosion-controlled release of these inhibitors.One critical aspect of a corrosion protective smart coating is the selection of corrosion inhibitor for encapsulation and comparison of the inhibitor function before and after encapsulation. For this purpose, a systematic approach is being used to evaluate free and encapsulated corrosion inhibitors by salt immersion. Visual, optical microscope, and Scanning Electron Microscope (with low-angle backscatter electron detector) are used to evaluate these inhibitors. It has been found that the combination of different characterization tools provide an effective method for evaluation of early stage localized corrosion and the effectiveness of corrosion inhibitors.

Direct-write liquid phase transformations with a scanning transmission electron microscope

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Unocic, Raymond R.; Lupini, Andrew R.; Borisevich, Albina Y.

The highly energetic electron beam from a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) can induce local changes in the state of matter, ranging from local knock-out and atomic movement, to amorphization/crystallization, and chemical/electrochemical reactions occuring at localized liquid-solid and gas-solid interfaces. To date, fundamental studies of e-beam induced phenomena and practical applications have been limited by conventional e-beam rastering modes that allow only for uniform e-beam exposures. Here we develop an automated liquid phase nanolithography method that is capable of directly writing nanometer scaled features within silicon nitride encapsulated liquid cells. An external beam control system, connected to the scan coilsmore » of an aberration-corrected STEM, is used to precisely control the position, dwell time, and scan velocity of a sub-nanometer STEM probe. Site-specific locations in a sealed liquid cell containing an aqueous solution of H 2PdCl 4 are irradiated to controllably deposit palladium onto silicon nitride membranes. We determine the threshold electron dose required for the radiolytic deposition of metallic palladium, explore the influence of electron dose on the feature size and morphology of nanolithographically patterned nanostructures, and propose a feedback-controlled monitoring method for active control of the nanofabricated structures through STEM detector signal monitoring. As a result, this approach enables both fundamental studies of electron beam induced interactions with matter, as well as opens a pathway to fabricate nanostructures with tailored architectures and chemistries via shape-controlled nanolithographic patterning from liquid phase precursors.« less

Direct-write liquid phase transformations with a scanning transmission electron microscope

DOE PAGES

Unocic, Raymond R.; Lupini, Andrew R.; Borisevich, Albina Y.; ...

2016-08-03

The highly energetic electron beam from a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) can induce local changes in the state of matter, ranging from local knock-out and atomic movement, to amorphization/crystallization, and chemical/electrochemical reactions occuring at localized liquid-solid and gas-solid interfaces. To date, fundamental studies of e-beam induced phenomena and practical applications have been limited by conventional e-beam rastering modes that allow only for uniform e-beam exposures. Here we develop an automated liquid phase nanolithography method that is capable of directly writing nanometer scaled features within silicon nitride encapsulated liquid cells. An external beam control system, connected to the scan coilsmore » of an aberration-corrected STEM, is used to precisely control the position, dwell time, and scan velocity of a sub-nanometer STEM probe. Site-specific locations in a sealed liquid cell containing an aqueous solution of H 2PdCl 4 are irradiated to controllably deposit palladium onto silicon nitride membranes. We determine the threshold electron dose required for the radiolytic deposition of metallic palladium, explore the influence of electron dose on the feature size and morphology of nanolithographically patterned nanostructures, and propose a feedback-controlled monitoring method for active control of the nanofabricated structures through STEM detector signal monitoring. As a result, this approach enables both fundamental studies of electron beam induced interactions with matter, as well as opens a pathway to fabricate nanostructures with tailored architectures and chemistries via shape-controlled nanolithographic patterning from liquid phase precursors.« less

Examination of Scanning Electron Microscope and Computed Tomography Images of PICA

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lawson, John W.; Stackpoole, Margaret M.; Shklover, Valery

2010-01-01

Micrographs of PICA (Phenolic Impregnated Carbon Ablator) taken using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and 3D images taken with a Computed Tomography (CT) system are examined. PICA is a carbon fiber based composite (Fiberform ) with a phenolic polymer matrix. The micrographs are taken at different surface depths and at different magnifications in a sample after arc jet testing and show different levels of oxidative removal of the charred matrix (Figs 1 though 13). CT scans, courtesy of Xradia, Inc. of Concord CA, were captured for samples of virgin PICA, charred PICA and raw Fiberform (Fig. 14). We use these images to calculate the thermal conductivity (TC) of these materials using correlation function (CF) methods. CF methods give a mathematical description of how one material is embedded in another and is thus ideally suited for modeling composites like PICA. We will evaluate how the TC of the materials changes as a function of surface depth. This work is in collaboration with ETH-Zurich, which has expertise in high temperature materials and TC modeling (including CF methods).

Effective absorption correction for energy dispersive X-ray mapping in a scanning transmission electron microscope: analysing the local indium distribution in rough samples of InGaN alloy layers.

PubMed

Wang, X; Chauvat, M-P; Ruterana, P; Walther, T

2017-12-01

We have applied our previous method of self-consistent k*-factors for absorption correction in energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy to quantify the indium content in X-ray maps of thick compound InGaN layers. The method allows us to quantify the indium concentration without measuring the sample thickness, density or beam current, and works even if there is a drastic local thickness change due to sample roughness or preferential thinning. The method is shown to select, point-by-point in a two-dimensional spectrum image or map, the k*-factor from the local Ga K/L intensity ratio that is most appropriate for the corresponding sample geometry, demonstrating it is not the sample thickness measured along the electron beam direction but the optical path length the X-rays have to travel through the sample that is relevant for the absorption correction. © 2017 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2017 Royal Microscopical Society.

Surface topography characterization using 3D stereoscopic reconstruction of SEM images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vedantha Krishna, Amogh; Flys, Olena; Reddy, Vijeth V.; Rosén, B. G.

2018-06-01

A major drawback of the optical microscope is its limitation to resolve finer details. Many microscopes have been developed to overcome the limitations set by the diffraction of visible light. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) is one such alternative: it uses electrons for imaging, which have much smaller wavelength than photons. As a result high magnification with superior image resolution can be achieved. However, SEM generates 2D images which provide limited data for surface measurements and analysis. Often many research areas require the knowledge of 3D structures as they contribute to a comprehensive understanding of microstructure by allowing effective measurements and qualitative visualization of the samples under study. For this reason, stereo photogrammetry technique is employed to convert SEM images into 3D measurable data. This paper aims to utilize a stereoscopic reconstruction technique as a reliable method for characterization of surface topography. Reconstructed results from SEM images are compared with coherence scanning interferometer (CSI) results obtained by measuring a roughness reference standard sample. This paper presents a method to select the most robust/consistent surface texture parameters that are insensitive to the uncertainties involved in the reconstruction technique itself. Results from the two-stereoscopic reconstruction algorithms are also documented in this paper.

Gold Nanomaterials in Consumer Cosmetics Nanoproducts: Analyses, Characterization, and Dermal Safety Assessment.

PubMed

Cao, Mingjing; Li, Jiayang; Tang, Jinglong; Chen, Chunying; Zhao, Yuliang

2016-10-01

Establishment of analytical methods of engineered nanomaterials in consumer products for their human and environmental risk assessment becomes urgent for both academic and industrial needs. Owing to the difficulties and challenges around nanomaterials in complex media, proper chemical separation and biological assays of nanomaterials from nanoproducts needs to be firstly developed. Herein, a facile and rapid method to separate and analyze gold nanomaterials in cosmetics is reported. Gold nanomaterials are successfully separated from different facial or eye creams and their physiochemical properties are analyzed by quantitative and qualitative state-of-the art techniques with high sensitivity or high spatial resolution. In turn, a protocol including quantification of gold by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and thorough characterization of morphology, size distribution, and surface property by electron microscopes, atomic force microscope, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscope is developed. Subsequently, the preliminary toxicity assessment indicates that gold nanomaterials in cosmetic creams have no observable toxicity to human keratinocytes even after 24 h exposure up to a concentration of 200 μg mL -1 . The environmental scanning electron microscope reveals that gold nanomaterials are mostly attached on the cell membrane. Thus, the present study provides a full analysis protocol for toxicity assessment of gold nanomaterials in consumer products (cosmetic creams). © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Studying aerosol light scattering based on aspect ratio distribution observed by fluorescence microscope.

PubMed

Li, Li; Zheng, Xu; Li, Zhengqiang; Li, Zhanhua; Dubovik, Oleg; Chen, Xingfeng; Wendisch, Manfred

2017-08-07

Particle shape is crucial to the properties of light scattered by atmospheric aerosol particles. A method of fluorescence microscopy direct observation was introduced to determine the aspect ratio distribution of aerosol particles. The result is comparable with that of the electron microscopic analysis. The measured aspect ratio distribution has been successfully applied in modeling light scattering and further in simulation of polarization measurements of the sun/sky radiometer. These efforts are expected to improve shape retrieval from skylight polarization by using directly measured aspect ratio distribution.

Study on stabilities, thermophysical properties and natural convective heat transfer characteristics of TiO2-water nanofluids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qi, Cong; Wan, Yong Liang; Wang, Gui Qing; Han, Dong Tai

2018-04-01

TiO2-water nanofluids with different mass fractions ( ω = 0.1 wt%, ω = 0.3 wt% and ω = 0.5 wt%) are prepared respectively, and the stabilities are studied by scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, dynamic analysis method and settlement observation method. Additionally, thermophysical properties of nanofluids are discussed, and models of thermophysical properties are deduced. Then, an experimental installation and a two-phase lattice Boltzmann model for natural convection heat transfer are established in this paper and the effects of cavity ratio, heating power and nanoparticle mass fraction on heat transfer are discussed respectively. It can be obtained that the thermal conductivities of TiO2-water nanofluids can be improved by 5.23% to the utmost extent. However, the heat transfer can be enhanced by 34.2% in the maximum with the increase of nanoparticle mass fraction at the lowest heating power and the largest cavity ratio.

Improved Stress Corrosion Cracking Resistance and Strength of a Two-Step Aged Al-Zn-Mg-Cu Alloy Using Taguchi Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Lianghua; Liu, Zhiyi; Ying, Puyou; Liu, Meng

2015-12-01

Multi-step heat treatment effectively enhances the stress corrosion cracking (SCC) resistance but usually degrades the mechanical properties of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys. With the aim to enhance SCC resistance as well as strength of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys, we have optimized the process parameters during two-step aging of Al-6.1Zn-2.8Mg-1.9Cu alloy by Taguchi's L9 orthogonal array. In this work, analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to find out the significant heat treatment parameters. The slow strain rate testing combined with scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope was employed to study the SCC behaviors of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy. Results showed that the contour map produced by ANOVA offered a reliable reference for selection of optimum heat treatment parameters. By using this method, a desired combination of mechanical performances and SCC resistance was obtained.

Contact detection for nanomanipulation in a scanning electron microscope.

PubMed

Ru, Changhai; To, Steve

2012-07-01

Nanomanipulation systems require accurate knowledge of the end-effector position in all three spatial coordinates, XYZ, for reliable manipulation of nanostructures. Although the images acquired by a scanning electron microscope (SEM) provide high resolution XY information, the lack of depth information in the Z-direction makes 3D nanomanipulation time-consuming. Existing approaches for contact detection of end-effectors inside SEM typically utilize fragile touch sensors that are difficult to integrate into a nanomanipulation system. This paper presents a method for determining the contact between an end-effector and a target surface during nanomanipulation inside SEM, purely based on the processing of SEM images. A depth-from-focus method is used in the fast approach of the end-effector to the substrate, followed by fine contact detection. Experimental results demonstrate that the contact detection approach is capable of achieving an accuracy of 21.5 nm at 50,000× magnification while inducing little end-effector damage. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Sensitive determination of citrinin based on molecular imprinted electrochemical sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Atar, Necip; Yola, Mehmet Lütfi; Eren, Tanju

2016-01-01

In this report, a novel molecular imprinted voltammetric sensor based on glassy carbon electrode (GCE) modified with platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) involved in a polyoxometalate (H3PW12O40, POM) functionalized reduced graphene oxide (rGO) was prepared for the determination of citrinin (CIT). The developed surfaces were characterized by using scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) method. CIT imprinted GCE was prepared via electropolymerization process of 80.0 mM pyrrole as monomer in the presence of phosphate buffer solution (pH 6.0) containing 20.0 mM CIT. The linearity range and the detection limit of the developed method were calculated as 1.0 × 10-12-1.0 × 10-10 M and 2.0 × 10-13 M, respectively. In addition, the voltammetric sensor was applied to rye samples. The stability and selectivity of the voltammetric sensor were also reported.

Nanocellulose based polymer composite for acoustical materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Farid, Mohammad; Purniawan, Agung; Susanti, Diah; Priyono, Slamet; Ardhyananta, Hosta; Rahmasita, Mutia E.

2018-04-01

Natural fibers are biodegradable materials that are innovatively and widely used for composite reinforcement in automotive components. Nanocellulose derived from natural fibers oil palm empty bunches have properties that are remarkable for use as a composite reinforcement. However, there have not been many investigations related to the use of nanocellulose-based composites for wideband sound absorption materials. The specimens of nanocellulose-based polyester composite were prepared using a spray method. An impedance tube method was used to measure the sound absorption coefficient of this composite material. To reveal the characteristics of the nanocellulose-based polyester composite material, SEM (scanning electron microscope), TEM (Transmission Electron Microscope), FTIR (Fourier Transform Infra Red), TGA (Thermogravimetric Analysis), and density tests were performed. Sound absorption test results showed the average value of sound absorption coefficient of 0.36 to 0,46 for frequency between 500 and 4000 Hz indicating that this nanocellulose-based polyester composite materials had a tendency to wideband sound absorption materials and potentially used as automotive interior materials.

New molecular imprinted voltammetric sensor for determination of ochratoxin A.

PubMed

Yola, Mehmet Lütfi; Gupta, Vinod Kumar; Atar, Necip

2016-04-01

In this report, a novel molecular imprinted voltammetric sensor based on silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) involved in a polyoxometalate (H3PW12O40, POM) functionalized reduced graphene oxide (rGO) modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was presented for determination of ochrattoxin A (OCH). The developed surfaces were characterized using scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) method. OCH imprinted GCE was prepared via electropolymerization process of 100mM phenol as monomer in the presence of phosphate buffer solution (pH6.0) containing 25 mM OCH. The linearity range and the detection limit of the method were calculated as 5.0 × 10(-11) - 1.5 × 10(-9)M and 1.6 × 10(-11) M, respectively. The voltammetric sensor was applied to grape juice and wine samples with good selectivity and recovery. The stability of the voltammetric sensor was also reported. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Suspension and simple optical characterization of two-dimensional membranes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Northeast, David B.; Knobel, Robert G.

2018-03-01

We report on a method for suspending two-dimensional crystal materials in an electronic circuit using an only photoresists and solvents. Graphene and NbSe2 are suspended tens of nanometers above metal electrodes with clamping diameters of several microns. The optical cavity formed from the membrane/air/metal structures enables a quick method to measure the number of layers and the gap separation using comparisons between the expected colour and optical microscope images. This characterization technique can be used with just an illuminated microscope with a digital camera which makes it adaptable to environments where other means of characterization are not possible, such as inside nitrogen glove boxes used in handling oxygen-sensitive materials.

Structure and optical properties of TiO2 thin films deposited by ALD method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Szindler, Marek; Szindler, Magdalena M.; Boryło, Paulina; Jung, Tymoteusz

2017-12-01

This paper presents the results of study on titanium dioxide thin films prepared by atomic layer deposition method on a silicon substrate. The changes of surface morphology have been observed in topographic images performed with the atomic force microscope (AFM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Obtained roughness parameters have been calculated with XEI Park Systems software. Qualitative studies of chemical composition were also performed using the energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS). The structure of titanium dioxide was investigated by X-ray crystallography. A variety of crystalline TiO2 was also confirmed by using the Raman spectrometer. The optical reflection spectra have been measured with UV-Vis spectrophotometry.

Visualizing Morphological Changes of Abscission Zone Cells in Arabidopsis by Scanning Electron Microscope.

PubMed

Shi, Chun-Lin; Butenko, Melinka A

2018-01-01

Scanning electron microscope (SEM) is a type of electron microscope which produces detailed images of surface structures. It has been widely used in plants and animals to study cellular structures. Here, we describe a detailed protocol to prepare samples of floral abscission zones (AZs) for SEM, as well as further image analysis. We show that it is a powerful tool to detect morphologic changes at the cellular level during the course of abscission in wild-type plants and to establish the details of phenotypic alteration in abscission mutants.

Atmospheric scanning electron microscope for correlative microscopy.

PubMed

Morrison, Ian E G; Dennison, Clare L; Nishiyama, Hidetoshi; Suga, Mitsuo; Sato, Chikara; Yarwood, Andrew; O'Toole, Peter J

2012-01-01

The JEOL ClairScope is the first truly correlative scanning electron and optical microscope. An inverted scanning electron microscope (SEM) column allows electron images of wet samples to be obtained in ambient conditions in a biological culture dish, via a silicon nitride film window in the base. A standard inverted optical microscope positioned above the dish holder can be used to take reflected light and epifluorescence images of the same sample, under atmospheric conditions that permit biochemical modifications. For SEM, the open dish allows successive staining operations to be performed without moving the holder. The standard optical color camera used for fluorescence imaging can be exchanged for a high-sensitivity monochrome camera to detect low-intensity fluorescence signals, and also cathodoluminescence emission from nanophosphor particles. If these particles are applied to the sample at a suitable density, they can greatly assist the task of perfecting the correlation between the optical and electron images. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Electron holography study of magnetization behavior in the writer pole of a perpendicular magnetic recording head by a 1 MV transmission electron microscope.

PubMed

Hirata, Kei; Ishida, Yoichi; Akashi, Tetsuya; Shindo, Daisuke; Tonomura, Akira

2012-01-01

The magnetic domain structure of the writer poles of perpendicular magnetic recording heads was studied using electron holography. Although the domain structure of a 100-nm-thick writer pole could be observed with a 300 kV transmission electron microscope, that of the 250-nm-thick writer pole could not be analyzed due to the limited transmission capability of the instrument. On the other hand, the detailed domain structure of the 250-nm-thick writer pole was successfully analyzed by a 1 MV electron microscope using its high transmission capability. The thickness and material dependency of the domain structure of a writer pole were discussed.

Attainment of 40.5 pm spatial resolution using 300 kV scanning transmission electron microscope equipped with fifth-order aberration corrector.

PubMed

Morishita, Shigeyuki; Ishikawa, Ryo; Kohno, Yuji; Sawada, Hidetaka; Shibata, Naoya; Ikuhara, Yuichi

2018-02-01

The achievement of a fine electron probe for high-resolution imaging in scanning transmission electron microscopy requires technological developments, especially in electron optics. For this purpose, we developed a microscope with a fifth-order aberration corrector that operates at 300 kV. The contrast flat region in an experimental Ronchigram, which indicates the aberration-free angle, was expanded to 70 mrad. By using a probe with convergence angle of 40 mrad in the scanning transmission electron microscope at 300 kV, we attained the spatial resolution of 40.5 pm, which is the projected interatomic distance between Ga-Ga atomic columns of GaN observed along [212] direction.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rau, E. I.; Orlikovskiy, N. A.; Ivanova, E. S.

A new highly efficient design for semiconductor detectors of intermediate-energy electrons (1-50 keV) for application in scanning electron microscopes is proposed. Calculations of the response function of advanced detectors and control experiments show that the efficiency of the developed devices increases on average twofold, which is a significant positive factor in the operation of modern electron microscopes in the mode of low currents and at low primary electron energies.

Field modeling and ray-tracing of a miniature scanning electron microscope beam column.

PubMed

Loyd, Jody S; Gregory, Don A; Gaskin, Jessica A

2017-08-01

A miniature scanning electron microscope (SEM) focusing column design is introduced and its potential performance assessed through an estimation of parameters that affect the probe radius, to include source size, spherical and chromatic aberration, diffraction and space charge broadening. The focusing column, a critical component of any SEM capable of operating on the lunar surface, was developed by the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center and Advanced Research Systems. The ray-trace analysis presented uses a model of the electrostatic field (within the focusing column) that is first calculated using the boundary element method (BEM). This method provides flexibility in modeling the complex electrode shapes of practical electron lens systems. A Fourier series solution of the lens field is then derived within a cylindrical domain whose boundary potential is provided by the BEM. Used in this way, the Fourier series solution is an accuracy enhancement to the BEM solution, allowing sufficient precision to assess geometric aberrations through direct ray-tracing. Two modes of operation with distinct lens field solutions are described. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Japanese Society of Microscopy. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Electrical characterization of HgTe nanowires using conductive atomic force microscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gundersen, P.; Department of Physics, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NO-7491 Trondheim; Kongshaug, K. O.

Self-organized HgTe nanowires grown by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) have been characterized using conductive atomic force microscopy. As HgTe will degrade or evaporate at normal baking temperatures for electron beam lithography (EBL) resists, an alternative method was developed. Using low temperature optical lithography processes, large Au contacts were deposited on a sample covered with randomly oriented, lateral HgTe nanowires. Nanowires partly covered by the large electrodes were identified with a scanning electron microscope and then localized in the atomic force microscope (AFM). The conductive tip of the AFM was then used as a movable electrode to measure current-voltage curves atmore » several locations on HgTe nanowires. The measurements revealed that polycrystalline nanowires had diffusive electron transport, with resistivities two orders of magnitude larger than that of an MBE-grown HgTe film. The difference can be explained by scattering at the rough surface walls and at the grain boundaries in the wires. The method can be a solution when EBL is not available or requires too high temperature, or when measurements at several positions along a wire are required.« less

Kinematics of mechanical and adhesional micromanipulation under a scanning electron microscope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saito, Shigeki; Miyazaki, Hideki T.; Sato, Tomomasa; Takahashi, Kunio

2002-11-01

In this paper, the kinematics of mechanical and adhesional micromanipulation using a needle-shaped tool under a scanning electron microscope is analyzed. A mode diagram is derived to indicate the possible micro-object behavior for the specified operational conditions. Based on the diagram, a reasonable method for pick and place operation is proposed. The keys to successful analysis are to introduce adhesional and rolling-resistance factors into the kinematic system consisting of a sphere, a needle-shaped tool, and a substrate, and to consider the time dependence of these factors due to the electron-beam (EB) irradiation. Adhesional force and the lower limit of maximum rolling resistance are evaluated quantitatively in theoretical and experimental ways. This analysis shows that it is possible to control the fracture of either the tool-sphere or substrate-sphere interface of the system selectively by the tool-loading angle and that such a selective fracture of the interfaces enables reliable pick or place operation even under EB irradiation. Although the conventional micromanipulation was not repeatable because the technique was based on an empirically effective method, this analysis should provide us with a guideline to reliable micromanipulation.

Influence of mechanical noise inside a scanning electron microscope

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gaudenzi de Faria, Marcelo; Haddab, Yassine, E-mail: yassine.haddab@femto-st.fr; Le Gorrec, Yann

The scanning electron microscope is becoming a popular tool to perform tasks that require positioning, manipulation, characterization, and assembly of micro-components. However, some of these applications require a higher level of performance with respect to dynamics and precision of positioning. One limiting factor is the presence of unidentified noises and disturbances. This work aims to study the influence of mechanical disturbances generated by the environment and by the microscope, identifying how these can affect elements in the vacuum chamber. To achieve this objective, a dedicated setup, including a high-resolution vibrometer, was built inside the microscope. This work led to themore » identification and quantification of main disturbances and noise sources acting on a scanning electron microscope. Furthermore, the effects of external acoustic excitations were analysed. Potential applications of these results include noise compensation and real-time control for high accuracy tasks.« less

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2013-01-28

... 94305. Instrument: Titan 80-300 Environmental Transmission Electron Microscope. Manufacturer: FEI Co.../Scanning Electron Microscope. Manufacturer: FEI Co., the Netherlands. Intended Use: See notice at 77 FR...

A two-dimensional Dirac fermion microscope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bøggild, Peter; Caridad, José M.; Stampfer, Christoph; Calogero, Gaetano; Papior, Nick Rübner; Brandbyge, Mads

2017-06-01

The electron microscope has been a powerful, highly versatile workhorse in the fields of material and surface science, micro and nanotechnology, biology and geology, for nearly 80 years. The advent of two-dimensional materials opens new possibilities for realizing an analogy to electron microscopy in the solid state. Here we provide a perspective view on how a two-dimensional (2D) Dirac fermion-based microscope can be realistically implemented and operated, using graphene as a vacuum chamber for ballistic electrons. We use semiclassical simulations to propose concrete architectures and design rules of 2D electron guns, deflectors, tunable lenses and various detectors. The simulations show how simple objects can be imaged with well-controlled and collimated in-plane beams consisting of relativistic charge carriers. Finally, we discuss the potential of such microscopes for investigating edges, terminations and defects, as well as interfaces, including external nanoscale structures such as adsorbed molecules, nanoparticles or quantum dots.

A two-dimensional Dirac fermion microscope

PubMed Central

Bøggild, Peter; Caridad, José M.; Stampfer, Christoph; Calogero, Gaetano; Papior, Nick Rübner; Brandbyge, Mads

2017-01-01

The electron microscope has been a powerful, highly versatile workhorse in the fields of material and surface science, micro and nanotechnology, biology and geology, for nearly 80 years. The advent of two-dimensional materials opens new possibilities for realizing an analogy to electron microscopy in the solid state. Here we provide a perspective view on how a two-dimensional (2D) Dirac fermion-based microscope can be realistically implemented and operated, using graphene as a vacuum chamber for ballistic electrons. We use semiclassical simulations to propose concrete architectures and design rules of 2D electron guns, deflectors, tunable lenses and various detectors. The simulations show how simple objects can be imaged with well-controlled and collimated in-plane beams consisting of relativistic charge carriers. Finally, we discuss the potential of such microscopes for investigating edges, terminations and defects, as well as interfaces, including external nanoscale structures such as adsorbed molecules, nanoparticles or quantum dots. PMID:28598421

Silicone intraocular lens surface calcification in a patient with asteroid hyalosis.

PubMed

Matsumura, Kazuhiro; Takano, Masahiko; Shimizu, Kimiya; Nemoto, Noriko

2012-07-01

To confirm a substance presence on the posterior intraocular lens (IOL) surface in a patient with asteroid hyalosis. An 80-year-old man had IOLs for approximately 12 years. Opacities and neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet pits were observed on the posterior surface of the right IOL. Asteroid hyalosis and an epiretinal membrane were observed OD. An IOL exchange was performed on 24 March 2008, and the explanted IOL was analyzed using a light microscope and a transmission electron microscope with a scanning electron micrograph and an energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometer for elemental analysis. To confirm asteroid hyalosis, asteroid bodies were examined with the ionic liquid (EtMeIm+ BF4-) method using a field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) with digital beam control RGB mapping. X-ray spectrometry of the deposits revealed high calcium and phosphorus peaks. Spectrometry revealed that the posterior IOL surface opacity was due to a calcium-phosphorus compound. Examination of the asteroid bodies using FE-SEM with digital beam control RGB mapping confirmed calcium and phosphorus as the main components. Calcium hydrogen phosphate dihydrate deposits were probably responsible for the posterior IOL surface opacity. Furthermore, analysis of the asteroid bodies demonstrated that calcium and phosphorus were its main components.

Measurements and simulations of microscopic damage to DNA in water by 30 keV electrons: A general approach applicable to other radiation sources and biological targets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hahn, Marc Benjamin; Meyer, Susann; Kunte, Hans-Jörg; Solomun, Tihomir; Sturm, Heinz

2017-05-01

The determination of the microscopic dose-damage relationship for DNA in an aqueous environment is of a fundamental interest for dosimetry and applications in radiation therapy and protection. We combine geant4 particle-scattering simulations in water with calculations concerning the movement of biomolecules to obtain the energy deposit in the biologically relevant nanoscopic volume. We juxtaposition these results to the experimentally determined damage to obtain the dose-damage relationship at a molecular level. This approach is tested for an experimentally challenging system concerning the direct irradiation of plasmid DNA (pUC19) in water with electrons as primary particles. Here a microscopic target model for the plasmid DNA based on the relation of lineal energy and radiation quality is used to calculate the effective target volume. It was found that on average fewer than two ionizations within a 7.5-nm radius around the sugar-phosphate backbone are sufficient to cause a single strand break, with a corresponding median lethal energy deposit being E1 /2=6 ±4 eV. The presented method is applicable for ionizing radiation (e.g., γ rays, x rays, and electrons) and a variety of targets, such as DNA, proteins, or cells.

Scanning Microscopes Using X Rays and Microchannels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Yu

2003-01-01

Scanning microscopes that would be based on microchannel filters and advanced electronic image sensors and that utilize x-ray illumination have been proposed. Because the finest resolution attainable in a microscope is determined by the wavelength of the illumination, the xray illumination in the proposed microscopes would make it possible, in principle, to achieve resolutions of the order of nanometers about a thousand times as fine as the resolution of a visible-light microscope. Heretofore, it has been necessary to use scanning electron microscopes to obtain such fine resolution. In comparison with scanning electron microscopes, the proposed microscopes would likely be smaller, less massive, and less expensive. Moreover, unlike in scanning electron microscopes, it would not be necessary to place specimens under vacuum. The proposed microscopes are closely related to the ones described in several prior NASA Tech Briefs articles; namely, Miniature Microscope Without Lenses (NPO-20218), NASA Tech Briefs, Vol. 22, No. 8 (August 1998), page 43; and Reflective Variants of Miniature Microscope Without Lenses (NPO-20610), NASA Tech Briefs, Vol. 26, No. 9 (September 2002) page 6a. In all of these microscopes, the basic principle of design and operation is the same: The focusing optics of a conventional visible-light microscope are replaced by a combination of a microchannel filter and a charge-coupled-device (CCD) image detector. A microchannel plate containing parallel, microscopic-cross-section holes much longer than they are wide is placed between a specimen and an image sensor, which is typically the CCD. The microchannel plate must be made of a material that absorbs the illuminating radiation reflected or scattered from the specimen. The microchannels must be positioned and dimensioned so that each one is registered with a pixel on the image sensor. Because most of the radiation incident on the microchannel walls becomes absorbed, the radiation that reaches the image sensor consists predominantly of radiation that was launched along the longitudinal direction of the microchannels. Therefore, most of the radiation arriving at each pixel on the sensor must have traveled along a straight line from a corresponding location on the specimen. Thus, there is a one-to-one mapping from a point on a specimen to a pixel in the image sensor, so that the output of the image sensor contains image information equivalent to that from a microscope.

Nanoscale imaging of whole cells using a liquid enclosure and a scanning transmission electron microscope.

PubMed

Peckys, Diana B; Veith, Gabriel M; Joy, David C; de Jonge, Niels

2009-12-14

Nanoscale imaging techniques are needed to investigate cellular function at the level of individual proteins and to study the interaction of nanomaterials with biological systems. We imaged whole fixed cells in liquid state with a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) using a micrometer-sized liquid enclosure with electron transparent windows providing a wet specimen environment. Wet-STEM images were obtained of fixed E. coli bacteria labeled with gold nanoparticles attached to surface membrane proteins. Mammalian cells (COS7) were incubated with gold-tagged epidermal growth factor and fixed. STEM imaging of these cells resulted in a resolution of 3 nm for the gold nanoparticles. The wet-STEM method has several advantages over conventional imaging techniques. Most important is the capability to image whole fixed cells in a wet environment with nanometer resolution, which can be used, e.g., to map individual protein distributions in/on whole cells. The sample preparation is compatible with that used for fluorescent microscopy on fixed cells for experiments involving nanoparticles. Thirdly, the system is rather simple and involves only minimal new equipment in an electron microscopy (EM) laboratory.

The interperiosteo-dural concept applied to the perisellar compartment: a microanatomical and electron microscopic study.

PubMed

François, Patrick; Travers, Nadine; Lescanne, Emmanuel; Arbeille, Brigitte; Jan, Michel; Velut, Stéphane

2010-11-01

The dura mater has 2 dural layers: the endosteal layer (outer layer), which is firmly attached to the bone, and the meningeal layer (inner layer), which directly covers the brain. These 2 dural layers join together in the middle temporal fossa or the convexity and separate into the orbital, lateral sellar compartment (LSC), or spinal epidural space to form the extradural neural axis compartment (EDNAC). The aim of this work was to anatomically verify the concept of the EDNAC by using electron microscopy. The authors studied the cadaveric heads obtained from 13 adults. Ten of the specimens (or 20 perisellar areas) were injected with colored latex and fixed in formalin. They carefully removed each brain to allow a superior approach to the perisellar area. The 3 other specimens were studied by microscopic and ultrastructural methods to describe the EDNAC in the perisellar area. Special attention was paid to the dural layers surrounding the perisellar area. The authors studied the anatomy of the meningeal architecture of the LSC, the petroclival venous confluence, the orbit, and the trigeminal cave. After dissection, the authors took photographs of the dural layers with the aid of optical magnification. The 3 remaining heads, obtained from fresh cadavers, were prepared for electron microscopic study. The EDNAC is limited by the endosteal layer and the meningeal layer and contains fat and/or venous blood. The endosteal layer and meningeal layer were not identical on electron microscopy; this finding can be readily related to the histology of the meninges. In this study, the authors demonstrated the existence of the EDNAC concept in the perisellar area by using dissected cadaveric heads and verified the reality of the concept of the meningeal layer with electron microscopy. These findings clearly demonstrated the existence of the EDNAC, a notion that has generally been accepted but never demonstrated microscopically.

Development of the field of structural physiology

PubMed Central

FUJIYOSHI, Yoshinori

2015-01-01

Electron crystallography is especially useful for studying the structure and function of membrane proteins — key molecules with important functions in neural and other cells. Electron crystallography is now an established technique for analyzing the structures of membrane proteins in lipid bilayers that closely simulate their natural biological environment. Utilizing cryo-electron microscopes with helium-cooled specimen stages that were developed through a personal motivation to understand the functions of neural systems from a structural point of view, the structures of membrane proteins can be analyzed at a higher than 3 Å resolution. This review covers four objectives. First, I introduce the new research field of structural physiology. Second, I recount some of the struggles involved in developing cryo-electron microscopes. Third, I review the structural and functional analyses of membrane proteins mainly by electron crystallography using cryo-electron microscopes. Finally, I discuss multifunctional channels named “adhennels” based on structures analyzed using electron and X-ray crystallography. PMID:26560835

SEM visualization of glycosylated surface molecules using lectin-coated microspheres

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Duke, J.; Janer, L.; Campbell, M.

1985-01-01

There are several techniques currently used to localize glycosylated surface molecules by scanning electron microscopy (Grinnell, 1980; Molday, 1976; Linthicum and Sell, 1975; Nicolson, 1974; Lo Buglio, et al, 1972). A simple and rapid method, using a modification of Grinnell's technique is reported here. Essentially, microspheres coated with Concavalin A are used to bind to glycosylated regions of the palatal shelf epithelium and are visualized in the scanning electron microscope (SEM).

Direct-write maskless lithography using patterned oxidation of Si-substrate Induced by femtosecond laser pulses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kiani, Amirkianoosh; Venkatakrishnan, Krishnan; Tan, Bo

2013-03-01

In this study we report a new method for direct-write maskless lithography using oxidized silicon layer induced by high repetition (MHz) ultrafast (femtosecond) laser pulses under ambient condition. The induced thin layer of predetermined pattern can act as an etch stop during etching process in alkaline etchants such as KOH. The proposed method can be leading to promising solutions for direct-write maskless lithography technique since the proposed method offers a higher degree of flexibility and reduced time and cost of fabrication which makes it particularly appropriate for rapid prototyping and custom scale manufacturing. A Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Micro-Raman, Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX), optical microscope and X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD) were used to evaluate the quality of oxidized layer induced by laser pulses.

Beneficial reuse of fly ashes in geotechnical engineering with physicochemical and electron microscopic methods.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-06-01

The sedimentation behavior of fine grained soil is largely dependent on its pore fluid chemistry. Physicochemical properties of the : pore fluid, such as ionic strength and pH, could greatly influence the micro structure of kaolinite which in turn in...

Electron crystallography with the EIGER detector

PubMed Central

Tinti, Gemma; Fröjdh, Erik; van Genderen, Eric; Gruene, Tim; Schmitt, Bernd; de Winter, D. A. Matthijs; Weckhuysen, Bert M.; Abrahams, Jan Pieter

2018-01-01

Electron crystallography is a discipline that currently attracts much attention as method for inorganic, organic and macromolecular structure solution. EIGER, a direct-detection hybrid pixel detector developed at the Paul Scherrer Institut, Switzerland, has been tested for electron diffraction in a transmission electron microscope. EIGER features a pixel pitch of 75 × 75 µm2, frame rates up to 23 kHz and a dead time between frames as low as 3 µs. Cluster size and modulation transfer functions of the detector at 100, 200 and 300 keV electron energies are reported and the data quality is demonstrated by structure determination of a SAPO-34 zeotype from electron diffraction data. PMID:29765609

Carbon contamination in scanning transmission electron microscopy and its impact on phase-plate applications.

PubMed

Hettler, Simon; Dries, Manuel; Hermann, Peter; Obermair, Martin; Gerthsen, Dagmar; Malac, Marek

2017-05-01

We analyze electron-beam induced carbon contamination in a transmission electron microscope. The study is performed on thin films potentially suitable as phase plates for phase-contrast transmission electron microscopy. Electron energy-loss spectroscopy and phase-plate imaging is utilized to analyze the contamination. The deposited contamination layer is identified as a graphitic carbon layer which is not prone to electrostatic charging whereas a non-conductive underlying substrate charges. Several methods that inhibit contamination are evaluated and the impact of carbon contamination on phase-plate imaging is discussed. The findings are in general interesting for scanning transmission electron microscopy applications. Crown Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Methods and devices for measuring orbital angular momentum states of electrons

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

McMorran, Benjamin J.; Harvey, Tyler R.

A device for measuring electron orbital angular momentum states in an electron microscope includes the following components aligned sequentially in the following order along an electron beam axis: a phase unwrapper (U) that is a first electrostatic refractive optical element comprising an electrode and a conductive plate, where the electrode is aligned perpendicular to the conductive plate; a first electron lens system (L1); a phase corrector (C) that is a second electrostatic refractive optical element comprising an array of electrodes with alternating electrostatic bias; and a second electron lens system (L2). The phase unwrapper may be a needle electrode ormore » knife edge electrode.« less

Fabrication of core-shell micro/nanoparticles for programmable dual drug release by emulsion electrospraying

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yazhou; Zhang, Yiqiong; Wang, Bochu; Cao, Yang; Yu, Qingsong; Yin, Tieying

2013-06-01

The study aimed at constructing a novel drug delivery system for programmable multiple drug release controlled with core-shell structure. The core-shell structure consisted of chitosan nanoparticles as core and polyvinylpyrrolidone micro/nanocoating as shell to form core-shell micro/nanoparticles, which was fabricated by ionic gelation and emulsion electrospray methods. As model drug agents, Naproxen and rhodamine B were encapsulated in the core and shell regions, respectively. The core-shell micro/nanoparticles thus fabricated were characterized and confirmed by scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, and fluorescence optical microscope. The core-shell micro/nanoparticles showed good release controllability through drug release experiment in vitro. It was noted that a programmable release pattern for dual drug agents was also achieved by adjusting their loading regions in the core-shell structures. The results indicate that emulsion electrospraying technology is a promising approach in fabrication of core-shell micro/nanoparticles for programmable dual drug release. Such a novel multi-drug delivery system has a potential application for the clinical treatment of cancer, tuberculosis, and tissue engineering.

Electron ptychographic phase imaging of light elements in crystalline materials using Wigner distribution deconvolution

DOE PAGES

Yang, Hao; MacLaren, Ian; Jones, Lewys; ...

2017-04-01

Recent development in fast pixelated detector technology has allowed a two dimensional diffraction pattern to be recorded at every probe position of a two dimensional raster scan in a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM), forming an information-rich four dimensional (4D) dataset. Electron ptychography has been shown to enable efficient coherent phase imaging of weakly scattering objects from a 4D dataset recorded using a focused electron probe, which is optimised for simultaneous incoherent Z-contrast imaging and spectroscopy in STEM. Thus coherent phase contrast and incoherent Z-contrast imaging modes can be efficiently combined to provide a good sensitivity of both light andmore » heavy elements at atomic resolution. Here, we explore the application of electron ptychography for atomic resolution imaging of strongly scattering crystalline specimens, and present experiments on imaging crystalline specimens including samples containing defects, under dynamical channelling conditions using an aberration corrected microscope. A ptychographic reconstruction method called Wigner distribution deconvolution (WDD) was implemented. Our experimental results and simulation results suggest that ptychography provides a readily interpretable phase image and great sensitivity for imaging light elements at atomic resolution in relatively thin crystalline materials.« less

Direct observation of dopant distribution in GaAs compound semiconductors using phase-shifting electron holography and Lorentz microscopy.

PubMed

Sasaki, Hirokazu; Otomo, Shinya; Minato, Ryuichiro; Yamamoto, Kazuo; Hirayama, Tsukasa

2014-06-01

Phase-shifting electron holography and Lorentz microscopy were used to map dopant distributions in GaAs compound semiconductors with step-like dopant concentration. Transmission electron microscope specimens were prepared using a triple beam focused ion beam (FIB) system, which combines a Ga ion beam, a scanning electron microscope, and an Ar ion beam to remove the FIB damaged layers. The p-n junctions were clearly observed in both under-focused and over-focused Lorentz microscopy images. A phase image was obtained by using a phase-shifting reconstruction method to simultaneously achieve high sensitivity and high spatial resolution. Differences in dopant concentrations between 1 × 10(19) cm(-3) and 1 × 10(18) cm(-3) regions were clearly observed by using phase-shifting electron holography. We also interpreted phase profiles quantitatively by considering inactive layers induced by ion implantation during the FIB process. The thickness of an inactive layer at different dopant concentration area can be measured from the phase image. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Japanese Society of Microscopy. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

High-resolution electron microscope

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nathan, R.

1977-01-01

Employing scanning transmission electron microscope as interferometer, relative phases of diffraction maximums can be determined by analysis of dark field images. Synthetic aperture technique and Fourier-transform computer processing of amplitude and phase information provide high resolution images at approximately one angstrom.

75 FR 9867 - University of Pittsburgh, et al

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-04

... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration University of Pittsburgh, et al.; Notice of Consolidated Decision on Applications for Duty-Free Entry of Electron Microscopes This is a...: University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260. Instrument: Electron Microscope. Manufacturer: JEOL, Ltd...

Development of a miniature scanning electron microscope for in-flight analysis of comet dust

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Conley, J. M.; Bradley, J. G.; Giffin, C. E.; Albee, A. L.; Tomassian, A. D.

1983-01-01

A description is presented of an instrument which was developed with the original goal of being flown on the International Comet Mission, scheduled for a 1985 launch. The Scanning Electron Microscope and Particle Analyzer (SEMPA) electron miniprobe is a miniaturized electrostatically focused electron microscope and energy dispersive X-ray analyzer for in-flight analysis of comet dust particles. It was designed to be flown on board a comet rendezvous spacecraft. Other potential applications are related to asteroid rendezvous and planetary lander missions. According to the development objectives, SEMPA miniprobe is to have the capability for imaging and elemental analysis of particles in the size range of 0.25 microns and larger.

Effect of Organic Substrates on the Photocatalytic Reduction of Cr(VI) by Porous Hollow Ga2O3 Nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Liu, Jin; Gan, Huihui; Wu, Hongzhang; Zhang, Xinlei; Zhang, Jun; Li, Lili; Wang, Zhenling

2018-01-01

Porous hollow Ga2O3 nanoparticles were successfully synthesized by a hydrolysis method followed by calcination. The prepared samples were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry, UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra and Raman spectrum. The porous structure of Ga2O3 nanoparticles can enhance the light harvesting efficiency, and provide lots of channels for the diffusion of Cr(VI) and Cr(III). Photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI), with different initial pH and degradation of several organic substrates by porous hollow Ga2O3 nanoparticles in single system and binary system, were investigated in detail. The reduction rate of Cr(VI) in the binary pollutant system is markedly faster than that in the single Cr(VI) system, because Cr(VI) mainly acts as photogenerated electron acceptor. In addition, the type and concentration of organic substrates have an important role in the photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI). PMID:29690548

Fermi level pinning characterisation on ammonium fluoride-treated surfaces of silicon by energy-filtered doping contrast in the scanning electron microscope

PubMed Central

Chee, Augustus K. W.

2016-01-01

Two-dimensional dopant profiling using the secondary electron (SE) signal in the scanning electron microscope (SEM) is a technique gaining impulse for its ability to enable rapid and contactless low-cost diagnostics for integrated device manufacturing. The basis is doping contrast from electrical p-n junctions, which can be influenced by wet-chemical processing methods typically adopted in ULSI technology. This paper describes the results of doping contrast studies by energy-filtering in the SEM from silicon p-n junction specimens that were etched in ammonium fluoride solution. Experimental SE micro-spectroscopy and numerical simulations indicate that Fermi level pinning occurred on the surface of the treated-specimen, and that the doping contrast can be explained in terms of the ionisation energy integral for SEs, which is a function of the dopant concentration, and surface band-bending effects that prevail in the mechanism for doping contrast as patch fields from the specimen are suppressed. PMID:27576347

Profiling with the electron microscope.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vedder, J. F.; Lem, H. Y.

1972-01-01

Discussion of a profiling technique using a scanning electron microscope for obtaining depth information on a single micrograph of a small specimen. A stationary electron beam is used to form a series of contamination spots in a line across the specimen. Micrographs obtained by this technique are useful as a means of projection and display where stereo viewers are not practical.

Electron probe X-ray microanalysis of cultured myogenic C2C12 cells with scanning and scanning transmission electron microscopy.

PubMed

Tylko, G; Karasiński, J; Wróblewski, R; Roomans, G M; Kilarski, W M

2000-01-01

Heterogeneity of the elemental content of myogenic C2C12 cultured cells was studied by electron probe X-ray microanalysis (EPXMA) with scanning (SEM EPXMA) and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM EPXMA). The best plastic substrate for growing cells was Thermanox. For STEM EPXMA, a Formvar film coated with carbon was found to be suitable substrate. The cells examined by scanning transmission electron microscopy showed great heterogeneity in their elemental content in comparison with the cells examined in the scanning electron microscope despite of an almost identical preparation procedure for EPXMA. Nevertheless the K/Na ratios obtained from both methods of EPXMA were very close (4.1 and 4.3). We conclude that the observed discrepancy in the elemental content obtained by the two methods may be due to differences in instrumentation and this must be taken into account when planning a comparative study.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hayashida, Misa; Malac, Marek; Egerton, Ray F.

Electron tomography is a method whereby a three-dimensional reconstruction of a nanoscale object is obtained from a series of projected images measured in a transmission electron microscope. We developed an electron-diffraction method to measure the tilt and azimuth angles, with Kikuchi lines used to align a series of diffraction patterns obtained with each image of the tilt series. Since it is based on electron diffraction, the method is not affected by sample drift and is not sensitive to sample thickness, whereas tilt angle measurement and alignment using fiducial-marker methods are affected by both sample drift and thickness. The accuracy ofmore » the diffraction method benefits reconstructions with a large number of voxels, where both high spatial resolution and a large field of view are desired. The diffraction method allows both the tilt and azimuth angle to be measured, while fiducial marker methods typically treat the tilt and azimuth angle as an unknown parameter. The diffraction method can be also used to estimate the accuracy of the fiducial marker method, and the sample-stage accuracy. A nano-dot fiducial marker measurement differs from a diffraction measurement by no more than ±1°.« less

Classification of Streptomyces Spore Surfaces into Five Groups

PubMed Central

Dietz, Alma; Mathews, John

1971-01-01

Streptomyces spores surfaces have been classified into five groups, smooth, warty, spiny, hairy, and rugose, by examination of carbon replicas of spores with the transmission electron microscope and by direct examination of spores with the scanning electron microscope. Images PMID:4928607

COLONIAL GROWTH OF MYCOPLASMA GALLISEPTICUM OBSERVED WITH THE ELECTRON MICROSCOPE

PubMed Central

Shifrine, Moshe; Pangborn, Jack; Adler, Henry E.

1962-01-01

Shifrine, Moshe (University of California, Davis), Jack Pangborn, and Henry E. Adler. Colonial growth of Mycoplasma gallisepticum observed with the electron microscope. J. Bacteriol. 83:187–192. 1962.—Mycoplasma gallisepticum strain S6 was grown on collodion film on solid medium. Samples were removed every few hours, fixed, washed, shadowed, and observed with the electron microscope. Three distinct forms of growth were observed: elementary cells (hexagonally shaped), platycytes, and exoblasts. A tentative mode of growth was postulated. The significance of the angular morphology to the relation between mycoplasmas and L-forms of bacteria is discussed. Images PMID:13911868

[Morphological changes of hemomicrocirculatory bed of the organs of rat masticatory apparatus after the exposure to general vibration and during pharmacologic correction].

PubMed

Gaĭvoronskiĭ, I V; Iordanishvili, A K; Kovalevskiĭ, A M

2013-01-01

The effect of chronic exposure to general vibration on the state of hemomicrocirculatory bed in the organs of rat masticatory apparatus and the efficacy of antihypoxants and adaptogens for its pharmacological prophylaxis was studied. The experiments were performed in 210 albino male rats aged 8 to 30 weeks. The intact rats served as control. Transcapillary injections with 1% collargol solution, histological, electron microscopic and morphometric methods were used. It was found that chronic exposure to general vibration induced a hemodynamic disturbances at the level of hemomicrocirculatory bed vessels in the organs of masticatory apparatus with subsequent hypoxia. Electron microscopic study revealed the damage of the cellular ultrastructure in the endotheliocytes of blood vessels of the hemomicrocirculatory bed. Antihypoxants, adaptogens and their combinations demonstrated a pronounced protective effect

Microscopic neural image registration based on the structure of mitochondria

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Huiwen; Han, Hua; Rao, Qiang; Xiao, Chi; Chen, Xi

2017-02-01

Microscopic image registration is a key component of the neural structure reconstruction with serial sections of neural tissue. The goal of microscopic neural image registration is to recover the 3D continuity and geometrical properties of specimen. During image registration, various distortions need to be corrected, including image rotation, translation, tissue deformation et.al, which come from the procedure of sample cutting, staining and imaging. Furthermore, there is only certain similarity between adjacent sections, and the degree of similarity depends on local structure of the tissue and the thickness of the sections. These factors make the microscopic neural image registration a challenging problem. To tackle the difficulty of corresponding landmarks extraction, we introduce a novel image registration method for Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) images of serial neural tissue sections based on the structure of mitochondria. The ellipsoidal shape of mitochondria ensures that the same mitochondria has similar shape between adjacent sections, and its characteristic of broad distribution in the neural tissue guarantees that landmarks based on the mitochondria distributed widely in the image. The proposed image registration method contains three parts: landmarks extraction between adjacent sections, corresponding landmarks matching and image deformation based on the correspondences. We demonstrate the performance of our method with SEM images of drosophila brain.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

V Yashchuk; R Conley; E Anderson

Verification of the reliability of metrology data from high quality X-ray optics requires that adequate methods for test and calibration of the instruments be developed. For such verification for optical surface profilometers in the spatial frequency domain, a modulation transfer function (MTF) calibration method based on binary pseudo-random (BPR) gratings and arrays has been suggested [1] and [2] and proven to be an effective calibration method for a number of interferometric microscopes, a phase shifting Fizeau interferometer, and a scatterometer [5]. Here we describe the details of development of binary pseudo-random multilayer (BPRML) test samples suitable for characterization of scanningmore » (SEM) and transmission (TEM) electron microscopes. We discuss the results of TEM measurements with the BPRML test samples fabricated from a WiSi2/Si multilayer coating with pseudo-randomly distributed layers. In particular, we demonstrate that significant information about the metrological reliability of the TEM measurements can be extracted even when the fundamental frequency of the BPRML sample is smaller than the Nyquist frequency of the measurements. The measurements demonstrate a number of problems related to the interpretation of the SEM and TEM data. Note that similar BPRML test samples can be used to characterize X-ray microscopes. Corresponding work with X-ray microscopes is in progress.« less

Method to deterministically study photonic nanostructures in different experimental instruments.

PubMed

Husken, B H; Woldering, L A; Blum, C; Vos, W L

2009-01-01

We describe an experimental method to recover a single, deterministically fabricated nanostructure in various experimental instruments without the use of artificially fabricated markers, with the aim to study photonic structures. Therefore, a detailed map of the spatial surroundings of the nanostructure is made during the fabrication of the structure. These maps are made using a series of micrographs with successively decreasing magnifications. The graphs reveal intrinsic and characteristic geometric features that can subsequently be used in different setups to act as markers. As an illustration, we probe surface cavities with radii of 65 nm on a silica opal photonic crystal with various setups: a focused ion beam workstation; a scanning electron microscope (SEM); a wide field optical microscope and a confocal microscope. We use cross-correlation techniques to recover a small area imaged with the SEM in a large area photographed with the optical microscope, which provides a possible avenue to automatic searching. We show how both structural and optical reflectivity data can be obtained from one and the same nanostructure. Since our approach does not use artificial grids or markers, it is of particular interest for samples whose structure is not known a priori, like samples created solely by self-assembly. In addition, our method is not restricted to conducting samples.

Achieving atomic resolution magnetic dichroism by controlling the phase symmetry of an electron probe

DOE PAGES

Rusz, Jan; Idrobo, Juan -Carlos; Bhowmick, Somnath

2014-09-30

The calculations presented here reveal that an electron probe carrying orbital angular momentum is just a particular case of a wider class of electron beams that can be used to measure electron magnetic circular dichroism (EMCD) with atomic resolution. It is possible to obtain an EMCD signal with atomic resolution by simply breaking the symmetry of the electron probe phase front using the aberration-corrected optics of a scanning transmission electron microscope. The probe’s required phase distribution depends on the sample’s magnetic symmetry and crystal structure. The calculations indicate that EMCD signals that use the electron probe’s phase are as strongmore » as those obtained by nanodiffraction methods.« less

Remediation of uranium-contaminated groundwater by sorption onto hydoxyapatite derived from catfish bones

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Hydroxyapatite was prepared from catfish bones, called catfish hydroxyapatite (CFHA), by mechanical and chemical treatment methods and was characterized by x-ray diffraction (X-RD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) techniques to confirm the presence of hydroxyapatite. The ability of CFHA to rem...

Boehmite nanostructures preparation by hydrothermal method from anodic aluminium oxide membrane.

PubMed

Yang, X; Wang, J Y; Pan, H Y

2009-02-01

Boehmite nanostructures were successfully synthesized from porous anodic aluminium oxide (AAO) membrane by a simple and efficient hydro-thermal method. The experiment used high purity alumina as raw material, and the whole reaction process avoided superfluous impurities to be introduced. Thus, the purity of Boehmite products was ensured. The examinations of the morphology and structure were carried out by atomic force microscope (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Composition of the specimens was analyzed using energy dispersive X-ray spectroscope (EDX) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Based on these observations the growth process was analyzed.

Accurate Virus Quantitation Using a Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM) Detector in a Scanning Electron Microscope

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-06-29

Accurate Virus Quantitation Using a Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM) Detector in a Scanning Electron Microscope Candace D Blancett1...L Norris2, Cynthia A Rossi4 , Pamela J Glass3, Mei G Sun1,* 1 Pathology Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious...Diseases (USAMRIID), 1425 Porter Street, Fort Detrick, Maryland, 21702 2Biostatistics Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of

Damage-free vibrational spectroscopy of biological materials in the electron microscope

PubMed Central

Rez, Peter; Aoki, Toshihiro; March, Katia; Gur, Dvir; Krivanek, Ondrej L.; Dellby, Niklas; Lovejoy, Tracy C.; Wolf, Sharon G.; Cohen, Hagai

2016-01-01

Vibrational spectroscopy in the electron microscope would be transformative in the study of biological samples, provided that radiation damage could be prevented. However, electron beams typically create high-energy excitations that severely accelerate sample degradation. Here this major difficulty is overcome using an ‘aloof' electron beam, positioned tens of nanometres away from the sample: high-energy excitations are suppressed, while vibrational modes of energies <1 eV can be ‘safely' investigated. To demonstrate the potential of aloof spectroscopy, we record electron energy loss spectra from biogenic guanine crystals in their native state, resolving their characteristic C–H, N–H and C=O vibrational signatures with no observable radiation damage. The technique opens up the possibility of non-damaging compositional analyses of organic functional groups, including non-crystalline biological materials, at a spatial resolution of ∼10 nm, simultaneously combined with imaging in the electron microscope. PMID:26961578

Damage-free vibrational spectroscopy of biological materials in the electron microscope.

PubMed

Rez, Peter; Aoki, Toshihiro; March, Katia; Gur, Dvir; Krivanek, Ondrej L; Dellby, Niklas; Lovejoy, Tracy C; Wolf, Sharon G; Cohen, Hagai

2016-03-10

Vibrational spectroscopy in the electron microscope would be transformative in the study of biological samples, provided that radiation damage could be prevented. However, electron beams typically create high-energy excitations that severely accelerate sample degradation. Here this major difficulty is overcome using an 'aloof' electron beam, positioned tens of nanometres away from the sample: high-energy excitations are suppressed, while vibrational modes of energies <1 eV can be 'safely' investigated. To demonstrate the potential of aloof spectroscopy, we record electron energy loss spectra from biogenic guanine crystals in their native state, resolving their characteristic C-H, N-H and C=O vibrational signatures with no observable radiation damage. The technique opens up the possibility of non-damaging compositional analyses of organic functional groups, including non-crystalline biological materials, at a spatial resolution of ∼10 nm, simultaneously combined with imaging in the electron microscope.

Damage-free vibrational spectroscopy of biological materials in the electron microscope

DOE PAGES

Rez, Peter; Aoki, Toshihiro; March, Katia; ...

2016-03-10

Vibrational spectroscopy in the electron microscope would be transformative in the study of biological samples, provided that radiation damage could be prevented. However, electron beams typically create high-energy excitations that severely accelerate sample degradation. Here this major difficulty is overcome using an ‘aloof’ electron beam, positioned tens of nanometres away from the sample: high-energy excitations are suppressed, while vibrational modes of energies o1 eV can be ‘safely’ investigated. To demonstrate the potential of aloof spectroscopy, we record electron energy loss spectra from biogenic guanine crystals in their native state, resolving their characteristic C–H, N–H and C=O vibrational signatures with nomore » observable radiation damage. Furthermore, the technique opens up the possibility of non-damaging compositional analyses of organic functional groups, including non-crystalline biological materials, at a spatial resolution of ~10nm, simultaneously combined with imaging in the electron microscope.« less

Damage-free vibrational spectroscopy of biological materials in the electron microscope

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rez, Peter; Aoki, Toshihiro; March, Katia

Vibrational spectroscopy in the electron microscope would be transformative in the study of biological samples, provided that radiation damage could be prevented. However, electron beams typically create high-energy excitations that severely accelerate sample degradation. Here this major difficulty is overcome using an ‘aloof’ electron beam, positioned tens of nanometres away from the sample: high-energy excitations are suppressed, while vibrational modes of energies o1 eV can be ‘safely’ investigated. To demonstrate the potential of aloof spectroscopy, we record electron energy loss spectra from biogenic guanine crystals in their native state, resolving their characteristic C–H, N–H and C=O vibrational signatures with nomore » observable radiation damage. Furthermore, the technique opens up the possibility of non-damaging compositional analyses of organic functional groups, including non-crystalline biological materials, at a spatial resolution of ~10nm, simultaneously combined with imaging in the electron microscope.« less

U-10Mo Sample Preparation and Examination using Optical and Scanning Electron Microscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Prabhakaran, Ramprashad; Joshi, Vineet V.; Rhodes, Mark A.

2016-10-01

The purpose of this document is to provide guidelines to prepare specimens of uranium alloyed with 10 weight percent molybdenum (U-10Mo) for optical metallography and scanning electron microscopy. This document also provides instructions to set up an optical microscope and a scanning electron microscope to analyze U-10Mo specimens and to obtain the required information.

U-10Mo Sample Preparation and Examination using Optical and Scanning Electron Microscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Prabhakaran, Ramprashad; Joshi, Vineet V.; Rhodes, Mark A.

2016-03-30

The purpose of this document is to provide guidelines to prepare specimens of uranium alloyed with 10 weight percent molybdenum (U-10Mo) for optical metallography and scanning electron microscopy. This document also provides instructions to set up an optical microscope and a scanning electron microscope to analyze U-10Mo specimens and to obtain the required information.

A Student-Built Scanning Tunneling Microscope

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ekkens, Tom

2015-01-01

Many introductory and nanotechnology textbooks discuss the operation of various microscopes including atomic force (AFM), scanning tunneling (STM), and scanning electron microscopes (SEM). In a nanotechnology laboratory class, students frequently utilize microscopes to obtain data without a thought about the detailed operation of the tool itself.…

78 FR 2659 - Application(s) for Duty-Free Entry of Scientific Instruments

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-01-14

..., 2201 West End Ave., Nashville, TN 37235. Instrument: Electron Microscope. Manufacturer: FEI Company... St., West Lafayette, IN 47907-2024. Instrument: Electron Microscope. Manufacturer: FEI Company, the..., microorganisms, nanomaterials, and chemical compounds. Justification for Duty-Free Entry: There are no...

Mapping the layer count of few-layer hexagonal boron nitride at high lateral spatial resolutions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohsin, Ali; Cross, Nicholas G.; Liu, Lei; Watanabe, Kenji; Taniguchi, Takashi; Duscher, Gerd; Gu, Gong

2018-01-01

Layer count control and uniformity of two dimensional (2D) layered materials are critical to the investigation of their properties and to their electronic device applications, but methods to map 2D material layer count at nanometer-level lateral spatial resolutions have been lacking. Here, we demonstrate a method based on two complementary techniques widely available in transmission electron microscopes (TEMs) to map the layer count of multilayer hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) films. The mass-thickness contrast in high-angle annular dark-field (HAADF) imaging in the scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) mode allows for thickness determination in atomically clean regions with high spatial resolution (sub-nanometer), but is limited by surface contamination. To complement, another technique based on the boron K ionization edge in the electron energy loss spectroscopy spectrum (EELS) of h-BN is developed to quantify the layer count so that surface contamination does not cause an overestimate, albeit at a lower spatial resolution (nanometers). The two techniques agree remarkably well in atomically clean regions with discrepancies within  ±1 layer. For the first time, the layer count uniformity on the scale of nanometers is quantified for a 2D material. The methodology is applicable to layer count mapping of other 2D layered materials, paving the way toward the synthesis of multilayer 2D materials with homogeneous layer count.

Assembly and microscopic characterization of DNA origami structures.

PubMed

Scheible, Max; Jungmann, Ralf; Simmel, Friedrich C

2012-01-01

DNA origami is a revolutionary method for the assembly of molecular nanostructures from DNA with precisely defined dimensions and with an unprecedented yield. This can be utilized to arrange nanoscale components such as proteins or nanoparticles into pre-defined patterns. For applications it will now be of interest to arrange such components into functional complexes and study their geometry-dependent interactions. While commonly DNA nanostructures are characterized by atomic force microscopy or electron microscopy, these techniques often lack the time-resolution to study dynamic processes. It is therefore of considerable interest to also apply fluorescence microscopic techniques to DNA nanostructures. Of particular importance here is the utilization of novel super-resolved microscopy methods that enable imaging beyond the classical diffraction limit.

The plant virus microscope image registration method based on mismatches removing.

PubMed

Wei, Lifang; Zhou, Shucheng; Dong, Heng; Mao, Qianzhuo; Lin, Jiaxiang; Chen, Riqing

2016-01-01

The electron microscopy is one of the major means to observe the virus. The view of virus microscope images is limited by making specimen and the size of the camera's view field. To solve this problem, the virus sample is produced into multi-slice for information fusion and image registration techniques are applied to obtain large field and whole sections. Image registration techniques have been developed in the past decades for increasing the camera's field of view. Nevertheless, these approaches typically work in batch mode and rely on motorized microscopes. Alternatively, the methods are conceived just to provide visually pleasant registration for high overlap ratio image sequence. This work presents a method for virus microscope image registration acquired with detailed visual information and subpixel accuracy, even when overlap ratio of image sequence is 10% or less. The method proposed focus on the correspondence set and interimage transformation. A mismatch removal strategy is proposed by the spatial consistency and the components of keypoint to enrich the correspondence set. And the translation model parameter as well as tonal inhomogeneities is corrected by the hierarchical estimation and model select. In the experiments performed, we tested different registration approaches and virus images, confirming that the translation model is not always stationary, despite the fact that the images of the sample come from the same sequence. The mismatch removal strategy makes building registration of virus microscope images at subpixel accuracy easier and optional parameters for building registration according to the hierarchical estimation and model select strategies make the proposed method high precision and reliable for low overlap ratio image sequence. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Tunneling rates in electron transport through double-barrier molecular junctions in a scanning tunneling microscope

PubMed Central

Nazin, G. V.; Wu, S. W.; Ho, W.

2005-01-01

The scanning tunneling microscope enables atomic-scale measurements of electron transport through individual molecules. Copper phthalocyanine and magnesium porphine molecules adsorbed on a thin oxide film grown on the NiAl(110) surface were probed. The single-molecule junctions contained two tunneling barriers, vacuum gap, and oxide film. Differential conductance spectroscopy shows that electron transport occurs via vibronic states of the molecules. The intensity of spectral peaks corresponding to the individual vibronic states depends on the relative electron tunneling rates through the two barriers of the junction, as found by varying the vacuum gap tunneling rate by changing the height of the scanning tunneling microscope tip above the molecule. A simple, sequential tunneling model explains the observed trends. PMID:15956189

Tunneling rates in electron transport through double-barrier molecular junctions in a scanning tunneling microscope.

PubMed

Nazin, G V; Wu, S W; Ho, W

2005-06-21

The scanning tunneling microscope enables atomic-scale measurements of electron transport through individual molecules. Copper phthalocyanine and magnesium porphine molecules adsorbed on a thin oxide film grown on the NiAl(110) surface were probed. The single-molecule junctions contained two tunneling barriers, vacuum gap, and oxide film. Differential conductance spectroscopy shows that electron transport occurs via vibronic states of the molecules. The intensity of spectral peaks corresponding to the individual vibronic states depends on the relative electron tunneling rates through the two barriers of the junction, as found by varying the vacuum gap tunneling rate by changing the height of the scanning tunneling microscope tip above the molecule. A simple, sequential tunneling model explains the observed trends.

Special Features of the Optical Absorption and Photoconductivity of Indium Monoselenide Upon Laser Excitation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kyazym-Zade, A. G.; Salmanov, V. M.; Guseinov, A. G.; Mamedov, R. M.; Salmanova, A. A.; Akhmedova, F. Sh.

2018-02-01

The successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method is used to prepare InSe thin films and InSe nanoparticles. Shapes and sizes of the obtained nanoparticles are investigated using a scanning electron microscope and an atomic force microscope. The main parameters of the examined structures, nanoparticle sizes (4-20 nm), and band gap ( E g = 1.60 eV) for nanoparticles with the least sizes are determined. Superfast (1.5·10-8 s) photocurrent relaxation and stimulated emission with line half-width of 8 Å have been observed upon exposure to laser radiation.

Mucinous colorectal adenocarcinoma with signet-ring cells: immunohistochemical and ultrastructural study.

PubMed

Seretis, E; Konstantinidou, A; Arnogiannakis, N; Xinopoulos, D; Voloudakis-Baltatzis, I E

2010-12-01

A primary mucinous colorectal adenocarcinoma tissue with signet-ring cells, as revealed after histological evaluation, was examined ultrastructurally. The authors also analyzed the immunohistochemical data of the tissue for serotonin, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), bombesin, somatostatin, and glucagon, using the peroxidase anti-peroxidase (PAP) method and the immunogold labeling method for light and electron microscope, respectively. Electron microscopically mucinous adenocarcinoma was characterized by the formation of small lumen. Adenocarcinoma cells were full of mucous granules of varying electron density, providing a good environment for the tumor cells to grow. They also exhibited a significant loss of microvilli and intracytoplasmic junctions, which could allow the cells to disseminate. Signet-ring cells were located in the basal site of the ducts or in the lamina propria and appeared neoplastic, with mucin accumulation intracellularly and an eccentric crescent-shaped nucleus. The cytoplasmic organelles were decreased and at the periphery of the cell. The PAP method demonstrated that these cells were strongly positive for bombesin and also positive for vasointestinal polypeptide (VIP). The immunogold method detected bombesin immunoreactivity in the vacuoles as well as in other cytoplasmic membranes, whereas VIP was localized mainly in the plasma membrane. The location of signet-ring cells combined with the immunoreactivity for bombesin and VIP indicated that signet-ring cells were of neuroendocrine origin and probably dedifferentiated enterochromaffin-like endocrine cells. These findings have implications for understanding the biological behavior of these composite malignant tumors and could help in the knowledge of the origin of signet-ring cells.

Multi-MHz time-of-flight electronic bandstructure imaging of graphene on Ir(111)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tusche, C., E-mail: c.tusche@fz-juelich.de; Peter Grünberg Institut; Goslawski, P.

2016-06-27

In the quest for detailed spectroscopic insight into the electronic structure at solid surfaces in a large momentum range, we have developed an advanced experimental approach. It combines the 3D detection scheme of a time-of-flight momentum microscope with an optimized filling pattern of the BESSY II storage ring. Here, comprehensive data sets covering the full surface Brillouin zone have been used to study faint substrate-film hybridization effects in the electronic structure of graphene on Ir(111), revealed by a pronounced linear dichroism in angular distribution. The method paves the way to 3D electronic bandmapping with unprecedented data recording efficiency.

A simple and inclusive method to determine the habit plane in transmission electron microscope based on accurate measurement of foil thickness

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Qiu, Dong, E-mail: d.qiu@uq.edu.au; Zhang, Mingxing

2014-08-15

A simple and inclusive method is proposed for accurate determination of the habit plane between bicrystals in transmission electron microscope. Whilst this method can be regarded as a variant of surface trace analysis, the major innovation lies in the improved accuracy and efficiency of foil thickness measurement, which involves a simple tilt of the thin foil about a permanent tilting axis of the specimen holder, rather than cumbersome tilt about the surface trace of the habit plane. Experimental study has been done to validate this proposed method in determining the habit plane between lamellar α{sub 2} plates and γ matrixmore » in a Ti–Al–Nb alloy. Both high accuracy (± 1°) and high precision (± 1°) have been achieved by using the new method. The source of the experimental errors as well as the applicability of this method is discussed. Some tips to minimise the experimental errors are also suggested. - Highlights: • An improved algorithm is formulated to measure the foil thickness. • Habit plane can be determined with a single tilt holder based on the new algorithm. • Better accuracy and precision within ± 1° are achievable using the proposed method. • The data for multi-facet determination can be collected simultaneously.« less

Silver Nanoscale Hexagonal Column Chips for Detecting Cell-free DNA and Circulating Nucleosomes in Cancer Patients.

PubMed

Ito, Hiroaki; Hasegawa, Katsuyuki; Hasegawa, Yuuki; Nishimaki, Tadashi; Hosomichi, Kazuyoshi; Kimura, Satoshi; Ohba, Motoi; Yao, Hiroshi; Onimaru, Manabu; Inoue, Ituro; Inoue, Haruhiro

2015-05-21

Blood tests, which are commonly used for cancer screening, generally have low sensitivity. Here, we developed a novel rapid and simple method to generate silver nanoscale hexagonal columns (NHCs) for use in surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). We reported that the intensity of SERS spectra of clinical serum samples obtained from gastrointestinal cancer patients is was significantly higher than that of SERS spectra of clinical serum samples obtained from non-cancer patients. We estimated the combined constituents on silver NHCs by using a field emission-type scanning electron microscope, Raman microscopes, and a 3D laser scanning confocal microscope. We obtained the Raman scattering spectra of samples of physically fractured cells and clinical serum. No spectra were obtained for chemically lysed cultured cells and DNA, RNA, and protein extracted from cultured cells. We believe that our method, which uses SERS with silver NHCs to detect circulating nucleosomes bound by methylated cell-free DNA, may be successfully implemented in blood tests for cancer screening.

Enhancing image contrast of carbon nanotubes on cellular background using helium ion microscope by varying helium ion fluence.

PubMed

Dykas, M M; Poddar, K; Yoong, S L; Viswanathan, V; Mathew, S; Patra, A; Saha, S; Pastorin, G; Venkatesan, T

2018-01-01

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have become an important nano entity for biomedical applications. Conventional methods of their imaging, often cannot be applied in biological samples due to an inadequate spatial resolution or poor contrast between the CNTs and the biological sample. Here we report a unique and effective detection method, which uses differences in conductivities of carbon nanotubes and HeLa cells. The technique involves the use of a helium ion microscope to image the sample with the surface charging artefacts created by the He + and neutralised by electron flood gun. This enables us to obtain a few nanometre resolution images of CNTs in HeLa Cells with high contrast, which was achieved by tailoring the He + fluence. Charging artefacts can be efficiently removed for conductive CNTs by a low amount of electrons, the fluence of which is not adequate to discharge the cell surface, resulting in high image contrast. Thus, this technique enables rapid detection of any conducting nano structures on insulating cellular background even in large fields of view and fine spatial resolution. The technique demonstrated has wider applications for researchers seeking enhanced contrast and high-resolution imaging of any conducting entity in a biological matrix - a commonly encountered issue of importance in drug delivery, tissue engineering and toxicological studies. © 2017 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2017 Royal Microscopical Society.

Atomic modeling of cryo-electron microscopy reconstructions--joint refinement of model and imaging parameters.

PubMed

Chapman, Michael S; Trzynka, Andrew; Chapman, Brynmor K

2013-04-01

When refining the fit of component atomic structures into electron microscopic reconstructions, use of a resolution-dependent atomic density function makes it possible to jointly optimize the atomic model and imaging parameters of the microscope. Atomic density is calculated by one-dimensional Fourier transform of atomic form factors convoluted with a microscope envelope correction and a low-pass filter, allowing refinement of imaging parameters such as resolution, by optimizing the agreement of calculated and experimental maps. A similar approach allows refinement of atomic displacement parameters, providing indications of molecular flexibility even at low resolution. A modest improvement in atomic coordinates is possible following optimization of these additional parameters. Methods have been implemented in a Python program that can be used in stand-alone mode for rigid-group refinement, or embedded in other optimizers for flexible refinement with stereochemical restraints. The approach is demonstrated with refinements of virus and chaperonin structures at resolutions of 9 through 4.5 Å, representing regimes where rigid-group and fully flexible parameterizations are appropriate. Through comparisons to known crystal structures, flexible fitting by RSRef is shown to be an improvement relative to other methods and to generate models with all-atom rms accuracies of 1.5-2.5 Å at resolutions of 4.5-6 Å. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The first report of new species: Trichuris landak n. sp

PubMed Central

Purwaningsih, Endang

2013-01-01

Objective To study nematode parasites morphology of Hystrix javanica (H. javanica), both through the feces and internal organs. Methods Feces were observed by direct smear method, internal organs were observed after dissecting the host. Specimens for light microscopy examination were fixed with 70% warm alcohol, cleared and mounted in lactophenol for wet mounting. Specimens for SEM examination were postfixed in cacodylate buffer and glutaraldehyde, dehydrated through a graded series of alcohol and freeze dried. The specimens were attached to stubs with double cello-tape, coated with gold and observed with a JSM5310 LV electron microscope. Figures were made with the aid of a drawing tube attached to Olympus compound microscope, other figures were photographs of scanning electron microscope images. Measurements were given in micrometers as the mean followed by the range in parentheses, unless otherwise stated. Results The nematode species found in the intestine of H. javanica are Gireterakis girardi and a new species, Trihuris landak. The new species differs with previously reported species from Hystrix because of having stylet and short cervical alae. The pattern of bacillary band is closed to Trichuris trichiurus, the species that infect human, but differs because the surface of its vulva is not covered with densely spine. Conclusions The species of nematodes found on H. javanica were Gireterakis girardi and a new species Trichuris landak n.sp. Those two species are newly recorded in Indonesia. PMID:23593584

Standardized Polyalthia longifolia leaf extract (PLME) inhibits cell proliferation and promotes apoptosis: The anti-cancer study with various microscopy methods.

PubMed

Vijayarathna, Soundararajan; Chen, Yeng; Kanwar, Jagat R; Sasidharan, Sreenivasan

2017-07-01

Over the years a number of microscopy methods have been developed to assess the changes in cells. Some non-invasive techniques such as holographic digital microscopy (HDM), which although does not destroy the cells, but helps to monitor the events that leads to initiation of apoptotic cell death. In this study, the apoptogenic property and the cytotoxic effect of P. longifolia leaf methanolic extract (PLME) against the human cervical carcinoma cells (HeLa) was studied using light microscope (LM), holographic digital microscopy (HDM), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The average IC 50 value of PLME against HeLa cells obtained by MTT and CyQuant assay was 22.00μg/mL at 24h. However, noncancerous Vero cells tested with PLME exhibited no cytotoxicity with the IC 50 value of 51.07μg/mL at 24h by using MTT assay. Cytological observations showed nuclear condensation, cell shrinkage, multinucleation, abnormalities of mitochondrial cristae, membrane blebbing, disappearance of microvilli and filopodia, narrowing of lamellipodia, holes, formation of numerous smaller vacuoles, cytoplasmic extrusions and formation of apoptotic bodies as confirmed collectively by HDM, LM, SEM and TEM. In conclusion, PLME was able to produce distinctive morphological features of HeLa cell death that corresponds to apoptosis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

New developments in electron microscopy for serial image acquisition of neuronal profiles.

PubMed

Kubota, Yoshiyuki

2015-02-01

Recent developments in electron microscopy largely automate the continuous acquisition of serial electron micrographs (EMGs), previously achieved by laborious manual serial ultrathin sectioning using an ultramicrotome and ultrastructural image capture process with transmission electron microscopy. The new systems cut thin sections and capture serial EMGs automatically, allowing for acquisition of large data sets in a reasonably short time. The new methods are focused ion beam/scanning electron microscopy, ultramicrotome/serial block-face scanning electron microscopy, automated tape-collection ultramicrotome/scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscope camera array. In this review, their positive and negative aspects are discussed. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Japanese Society of Microscopy. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Microcellular nanocomposite injection molding process

Treesearch

Mingjun Yuan; Lih-Sheng Turng; Rick Spindler; Daniel Caulfield; Chris Hunt

2003-01-01

This study aims to explore the processing benefits and property improvements of combining nanocomposites with microcellular injection molding. The molded parts produced based on the Design of Experiments (DOE) matrices were subjected to tensile testing, impact testing, and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), Dynamic Mechanical...

A next generation positron microscope and a survey of candidate samples for future positron studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dull, Terry Lou

A positron microscope has been constructed and is nearing the conclusion of its assembly and testing. The instrument is designed to perform positron and electron microscopy in both scanning and magnifying modes. In scanning mode, a small beam of particles is rastered across the target and the amplitude of a positron or electron related signal is recorded as a function of position. For positrons this signal may come from Doppler Broadening Spectroscopy, Reemitted Positron Spectroscopy or Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy. For electrons this signal may come from the number of secondary electrons or Auger Electron Spectroscopy. In magnifying mode an incident beam of particles is directed onto the target and emitted particles, either secondary electrons or reemitted positrons, are magnified to form an image. As a positron microscope the instrument will primarily operate in magnifying mode, as a positron reemission microscope. As an electron microscope the instrument will be able to operate in both magnifying and scanning modes. Depth-profiled Doppler Broadening Spectroscopy studies using a non-microscopic low-energy positron beam have also been performed on a series of samples to ascertain the applicability of positron spectroscopies and/or microscopy to their study. All samples have sub-micron film and/or feature size and thus are only susceptible to positron study with low-energy beams. Several stoichiometries and crystallinities of chalcogenide thin films (which can be optically reversibly switched between crystalline states) were studied and a correlation was found to exist between the amorphous/FCC S-parameter difference and the amorphous/FCC switching time. Amorphous silicon films were studied in an attempt to observe the well-established Staebler-Wronski effect as well as the more controversial photodilatation effect. However, DBS was not able to detect either effect. The passive oxide films on titanium and aluminum were studied in an attempt to verify the Point Defect Model, a detailed, but as yet microscopically unconfirmed, theory of the corrosive breakdown of passive films. DBS results supportive of the PDM were observed. Graphitic carbon fibers were also studied and DBS indicated the presence of a 200 nm thick outer fiber skin possibly characterized by a high degree of graphitic crystallite alignment.

Microscopic Electron Variations Measured Simultaneously By The Cluster Spacecraft

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buckley, A. M.; Carozzi, T. D.; Gough, M. P.; Beloff, N.

Data is used from the Particle Correlator experiments running on each of the four Cluster spacecraft so as to determine common microscopic behaviour in the elec- tron population observed over the macroscopic Cluster separations. The Cluster par- ticle correlator experiments operate by forming on board Auto Correlation Functions (ACFs) generated from short time series of electron counts obtained, as a function of electron energy, from the PEACE HEEA sensor. The information on the microscopic variation of the electron flux covers the frequency range DC up to 41 kHz (encom- passing typical electron plasma frequencies and electron gyro frequencies and their harmonics), the electron energy range is that covered by the PEACE HEEA sensor (within the range 1 eV to 26 keV). Results are presented of coherent electron struc- tures observed simultaneously by the four spacecraft in the differing plasma interac- tion regions and boundaries encountered by Cluster. As an aid to understanding the plasma interactions, use is made of numerical simulations which model both the un- derlying statistical properties of the electrons and also the manner in which particle correlator experiments operate.

Pre-microscope tunnelling — Inspiration or constraint?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Walmsley, D. G.

1987-03-01

Before the microscope burst upon the scene, tunnelling had established for itself a substantial niche in the repertoire of the solid state physicist. Over a period of 20 years it has contributed importantly to our understanding of many systems. It elucidated the superconducting state, first by a direct display of the energy gap then by providing detailed information on the phonon spectra and electron-phonon coupling strength in junction electrodes. Its use as a phonon spectrometer was subsequently extended to semiconductors and to the oxides of insulating barriers. Eventually the vibrational spectra of monolayer organic and inorganic adsorbates became amenable with rich scientific rewards. In a few cases electronic transitions have been observed. Plasmon excitation by tunnelling electrons led to insights on the electron loss function in metals at visible frequencies and provided along the way an intriguing light emitting device. With the advent of the microscope it is now appropriate to enquire how much of this experience can profitably be carried over to the new environment. Are we constrained just to repeat the experiments in a new configuration? Happily no. The microscope offers us topographical and spectroscopic information of a new order. One might next ask how great is the contact between the two disciplines? We explore this question and seek to establish where the pre-microscope experience can be helpful in inspiring our use of this marvellous new facility that we know as the scanning tunnelling microscope.

Structural and optical properties of ZnO nanorods synthesized via template free approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kajal, Priyanka; D, Pooja; Jaggi, Neena

2016-06-01

In this paper, we report a novel method for synthesis of semiconducting ZnO nanorods using Zinc acetate dehydrate precursor in a methanol—de-ionized (1:5) mixture via template free approach. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) images of as synthesized nanorods revealed hexagonal symmetry of rods, whereas x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis for structure and phase has shown high crystallinity with wurtzite crystal structure. The structural characterization by FT-IR analysis revealed presence of various groups on as synthesized ZnO nanorods, whereas the UV-Vis analysis has shown a blue shift in the absorption spectra as compared to bulk ZnO due to quantum confinement of charge carriers. Photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy study has also been performed revealing a good degree of phosphorescence in the ZnO nanorods. Further, thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed that as synthesized nanorods by present method are highly stable at high temperature (1000 °C). This study provides an alternative, less expensive and a very simple method for the fabrication of ZnO nanorods in abundance, which can be further used for various sensing applications, in particular, gas sensing.

Highly sensitive determination of sunset yellow FCF (E110) in food products based on Chitosan/Nanoparticles/MWCNTs with modified gold electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rovina, K.; Siddiquee, S.; Shaarani, S. M.

2016-06-01

Sunset Yellow belongs to the family of azo dyes, commonly used in food industry. High consumption of Sunset Yellow can cause health problem to human. Due to arising of the health issues, there are several analytical methods available for determination of Sunset Yellow. However, these methods are required skilled manpower, complicated procedures, time consuming and high cost. Herein, an electrochemical sensor was developed based on the combination of chitosan (CHIT), calcium oxide nanoparticles (CaONPs) and multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) sensing film for detection of Sunset Yellow in food products. Electrochemical behavior of the modified gold electrode in the presence of Sunset Yellow was studied by using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The morphological characteristics of CHIT/CaONPs/MWCNTs were observed under scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope. Under optimal conditions, the DPV was detected with different concentrations of Sunset Yellow in the range of 0.9 to 10 ppm, with detection limit of 0.8 ppm. The developed method has successfully applied for monitoring the presence of Sunset Yellow with different food products including candy, royal jelly, ice cream and soft drink with satisfactory results.

Biosynthesised ZnO : Dy3+ nanoparticles: Biodiesel properties and reusable catalyst for N-formylation of aromatic amines with formic acid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reddy Yadav, L. S.; Raghavendra, M.; Sudheer Kumar, K. H.; Dhananjaya, N.; Nagaraju, G.

2018-04-01

ZnO nanoparticles doped with trivalent dysprosium ions (Dy3+) were prepared through the green combustion technique using E. tirucalli plant latex as a fuel. The fundamental and optical properties of the samples are examined via the X-ray diffraction, FTIR, UV-visible analytical methods and morphology by scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope. Rietveld refinement results show that the ZnO : Dy3+ were crystallized in the wurtzite hexagonal structure with space group P63mc (No. 186). The average particle size of ZnO : Dy3+ prepared with the different concentration of latex was found to be in the range 30-38nm, which is also confirmed by TEM analysis. A rapid and convenient method for the one-pot preparation of N-formamide derivatives aromatic amines and amino acid esters has been developed using Dy3+ doped ZnO as a catalytic agent. This method provides an efficient and much improved modification over reported protocols regarding yield, clean and work-up procedure milder reaction conditions. In this work, Pongamiapinnata oil was recycled for the preparation of biodiesel via Dy3+ doped ZnO as a catalytic agent.

Synthesis of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles by a novel ultrasonic assisted with mixed hollow sphere template method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gopi, D.; Indira, J.; Kavitha, L.; Sekar, M.; Mudali, U. Kamachi

Hydroxyapatite (HAP) is the main inorganic component of bone material and is widely used in various biomedical applications due to its excellent bioactivity and biocompatibility. In this paper, we have reported the synthesis of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles by a novel ultrasonic assisted mixed template directed method. In this method glycine-acrylic acid (GLY-AA) hollow spheres were used as an organic template which could be prepared by mixing of glycine with acrylic acid. The as-synthesized HAP nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and tunnelling electron microscope (TEM) to investigate the nature of bonding, crystallinity, size and shape. The thermal stability of as-synthesized nanoparticles was also investigated by the thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA). The effect of ultrasonic irradiation time on the crystallinity and size of the HAP nanoparticles in presence of glycine-acrylic acid hollow spheres template were investigated. From the inspection of the above results it is confirmed that the crystallinity and size of the HAP nanoparticles decrease with increasing ultrasonic irradiation time. Hence the proposed synthesis strategy provides a facile pathway to obtain nano sized HAP with high quality, suitable size and morphology.

Interfacial characteristics of diamond/aluminum composites with high thermal conductivity fabricated by squeeze-casting method

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jiang, Longtao, E-mail: longtaojiang@163.com; Wang, Pingping; Xiu, Ziyang

2015-08-15

In this work, aluminum matrix composites reinforced with diamond particles (diamond/aluminum composites) were fabricated by squeeze casting method. The material exhibited a thermal conductivity as high as 613 W / (m · K). The obtained composites were investigated by scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope in terms of the (100) and (111) facets of diamond particles. The diamond particles were observed to be homogeneously distributed in the aluminum matrix. The diamond{sub (111)}/Al interface was found to be devoid of reaction products. While at the diamond{sub (100)}/Al interface, large-sized aluminum carbides (Al{sub 4}C{sub 3}) with twin-crystal structure were identified. Themore » interfacial characteristics were believed to be responsible for the excellent thermal conductivity of the material. - Graphical abstract: Display Omitted - Highlights: • Squeeze casting method was introduced to fabricate diamond/Al composite. • Sound interfacial bonding with excellent thermal conductivity was produced. • Diamond{sub (111)}/ aluminum interface was firstly characterized by TEM/HRTEM. • Physical combination was the controlling bonding for diamond{sub (111)}/aluminum. • The growth mechanism of Al{sub 4}C{sub 3} was analyzed by crystallography theory.« less

EBIC spectroscopy - A new approach to microscale characterization of deep levels in semi-insulating GaAs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Li, C.-J.; Sun, Q.; Lagowski, J.; Gatos, H. C.

1985-01-01

The microscale characterization of electronic defects in (SI) GaAs has been a challenging issue in connection with materials problems encountered in GaAs IC technology. The main obstacle which limits the applicability of high resolution electron beam methods such as Electron Beam-Induced Current (EBIC) and cathodoluminescence (CL) is the low concentration of free carriers in semiinsulating (SI) GaAs. The present paper provides a new photo-EBIC characterization approach which combines the spectroscopic advantages of optical methods with the high spatial resolution and scanning capability of EBIC. A scanning electron microscope modified for electronic characterization studies is shown schematically. The instrument can operate in the standard SEM mode, in the EBIC modes (including photo-EBIC and thermally stimulated EBIC /TS-EBIC/), and in the cathodo-luminescence (CL) and scanning modes. Attention is given to the use of CL, Photo-EBIC, and TS-EBIC techniques.

Electronic structure and microscopic model of V(2)GeO(4)F(2)-a quantum spin system with S = 1.

PubMed

Rahaman, Badiur; Saha-Dasgupta, T

2007-07-25

We present first-principles density functional calculations and downfolding studies of the electronic and magnetic properties of the oxide-fluoride quantum spin system V(2)GeO(4)F(2). We discuss explicitly the nature of the exchange paths and provide quantitative estimates of magnetic exchange couplings. A microscopic modelling based on analysis of the electronic structure of this systems puts it in the interesting class of weakly coupled alternating chain S = 1 systems. Based on the microscopic model, we make inferrences about its spin excitation spectra, which needs to be tested by rigorous experimental study.

A unifying approach to lattice dynamical and electronic properties of solids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Falter, C.

1988-06-01

A unified analysis of lattice dynamical and electronic properties of solids with special emphasis on the interaction between electrons and phonons is presented. The article is roughly divided into two parts reflecting different points of view. The density response of the electrons provides the link between these parts. In the first part, the microscopic theory in terms of the density response in crystals is discussed. Relations are pointed out between the density response approach and the density functional theory. The latter is used for a representation of the exchange-correlation interaction and the microscopic force constants. Relevant methods, as recently proposed by various authors for the calculation of the density response in inhomogeneous solids are discussed. Particular attention is paid to the development of a renormalized response description. Applications of this method to lattice dynamical and electronic properties are presented. In the second part an alternative physical concept, the quasi-ion approach, is outlined. This concept is shown to provide a microscopic basis for electronic charge localization in crystals and proves the importance of the correlation between crystal symmetry and many-body effects. Is is derived that within linear response theory an appropriate decomposition of the valence charge density leads uniquely to a spatially localized density contribution at the individual ion which follows its motion rigidly. The composite consisting of this partial density and the ion core is taken to be an individual entity, denoted as quasi-ion, from which the crystal is built up. In a certain sense this is a generalization of Ziman's concept of neutral pseudo-atoms being approximately valid in simple metals. New insight into the bonding mechanism and charge relaxation processes is shown to follow from this concept. In particular, we discuss the covalent, ionic and metallic bonding mechanisms, using the localized picture provided by the partial densities, on the same basis. The quasi-ion approach is also applied to the calculation of phonon-induced charge density redistributions and to the construction of a simplified formulation of microscopic lattice dynamics. Investigations of the phonon dispersion for different bonding types are given within a rigid quasi-ion model and extensions of this model are outlined. Among other things, these calculations indicate that bonding dynamics of (covalent) molecules and crystals can be described by relative rotations of the quasi-ions under the condition of rotational invariance of the system. Finally, possible applications of the quasi-ion concept to an approximate formulation of anharmonic lattice dynamics and the interaction between electrons and phonons are discussed. A numerical investigation of this interaction is presented and compared with the results from the rigid-ion model. As a consequence of the quasi-ion concept a consistent calculation of the phonon dispersion, the electronic band structure and the electron-phonon interaction becomes possible.

Correlative light and electron microscopic detection of GFP-labeled proteins using modular APEX.

PubMed

Ariotti, Nicholas; Hall, Thomas E; Parton, Robert G

2017-01-01

The use of green fluorescent protein (GFP) and related proteins has revolutionized light microscopy. Here we describe a rapid and simple method to localize GFP-tagged proteins in cells and in tissues by electron microscopy (EM) using a modular approach involving a small GFP-binding peptide (GBP) fused to the ascorbate peroxidase-derived APEX2 tag. We provide a method for visualizing GFP-tagged proteins by light and EM in cultured cells and in the zebrafish using modular APEX-GBP. Furthermore, we describe in detail the benefits of this technique over many of the currently available correlative light and electron microscopy approaches and demonstrate APEX-GBP is readily applicable to modern three-dimensional techniques. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Study of Deformation Phenomena in TRIP/TWIP Steels by Acoustic Emission and Scanning Electron Microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Linderov, M. L.; Segel, C.; Weidner, A.; Biermann, H.; Vinogradov, A. Yu.

2018-04-01

Modern metastable steels with TRIP/TWIP effects have a unique set of physical-mechanical properties. They combine both high-strength and high-plasticity characteristics, which is governed by processes activated during deformation, namely, twinning, the formation of stacking faults, and martensitic transformations. To study the behavior of these phenomena in CrMnNi TRIP/TWIP steels and stainless CrNiMo steel, which does not have these effects in the temperature range under study, we used the method of acoustic emission and modern methods of signal processing, including the cluster analysis of spectral-density functions. The results of this study have been compared with a detailed microstructural analysis performed with a scanning electron microscope using electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD).

Functionalization of carbon nanotubes: Characterization, modeling and composite applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Shiren

Carbon nanotubes have demonstrated exceptional mechanical, thermal and electrical properties, and are regarded as one of the most promising reinforcement materials for the next generation of high performance structural and multifunctional composites. However, to date, most application attempts have been hindered by several technical roadblocks, such as poor dispersion and weak interfacial bonding. In this dissertation, several innovative functionalization methods were proposed, studied to overcome these technical issues in order to realize the full potential of nanotubes as reinforcement. These functionalization methods included precision sectioning of nanotubes using an ultra-microtome, electron-beam irradiation, amino and epoxide group grafting. The characterization results of atomic force microscope, transmission electronic microscope and Raman suggested that aligned carbon nanotubes can be precisely sectioned with controlled length and minimum sidewall damage. This study also designed and demonstrated new covalent functionalization approaches through unique epoxy-grafting and one-step amino-grafting, which have potential of scale-up for composite applications. In addition, the dissertation also successfully tailored the structure and properties of the thin nanotube film through electron beam irradiation. Significant improvement of both mechanical and electrical conducting properties of the irradiated nanotube films or buckypapers was achieved. All these methods demonstrated effectiveness in improving dispersion and interfacial bonding in the epoxy resin, resulting in considerable improvements in composite mechanical properties. Modeling of functionalization methods also provided further understanding and offered the reasonable explanations of SWNTs length distribution as well as carbon nanostructure transformation upon electron-beam irradiation. Both experimental and modeling results provide important foundations for the further comprehensively investigation of nanotube functionalization, and hence facilitate realization of the full potential of nanotube-reinforced nanocomposites.

Effect of different catalyst preparation methods on the synthesis of carbon nanotubes with the flame pyrolysis method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Yonghong; Zhai, Gang; Ru, Yu; Wu, Chuyu; Jia, Xiaowei; Sun, Yaping; Yu, Jiawen; Kang, Zhizhong; Sun, Baomin

2018-03-01

The Flame pyrolysis method used to synthesize carbon nanotubes was studied in this work. In order to improve the quality of synthesized carbon nanotubes, it is important to change the corresponding natures of the catalyst. Two catalyst preparation methods, namely, the sol-gel method and the impregnation method, were compared in this experiment. The properties of the catalyst are analyzed in depth by energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), x-ray diffraction (XRD), temperature program reduction (TPR). The generation of carbon nanotubes was systematically analysed through scanning electron microscope (SEM), molecule dynamics (MD), raman spectroscopy and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The results show that the catalysts prepared by the impregnation method are stickier, dispersed and easier to dip onto the probe or substrate, which is beneficial for the large-scale production of carbon tubes. The specific surface area of alumina is larger and the iron and molybdenum oxide are more evenly dispersed on the surface of alumina. The carbon nanotubes produced by the catalysts prepared by impregnation method are flatter and have less impurities. The ratio of ID/IG+ is 29.7% lower than that of the sol-gel method in the Raman spectra. The TEM statistics show that the average diameter of the carbon tubes decreases by 23.3%. Therefore, the impregnation method can improve the quality of carbon nanotubes in the case of a similar degree of difficulty in the preparation of the catalyst.

Miniature self-contained vacuum compatible electronic imaging microscope

DOEpatents

Naulleau, Patrick P.; Batson, Phillip J.; Denham, Paul E.; Jones, Michael S.

2001-01-01

A vacuum compatible CCD-based microscopic camera with an integrated illuminator. The camera can provide video or still feed from the microscope contained within a vacuum chamber. Activation of an optional integral illuminator can provide light to illuminate the microscope subject. The microscope camera comprises a housing with a objective port, modified objective, beam-splitter, CCD camera, and LED illuminator.

An ultrafast electron microscope gun driven by two-photon photoemission from a nanotip cathode

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bormann, Reiner; Strauch, Stefanie; Schäfer, Sascha, E-mail: schaefer@ph4.physik.uni-goettingen.de

We experimentally and numerically investigate the performance of an advanced ultrafast electron source, based on two-photon photoemission from a tungsten needle cathode incorporated in an electron microscope gun geometry. Emission properties are characterized as a function of the electrostatic gun settings, and operating conditions leading to laser-triggered electron beams of very low emittance (below 20 nm mrad) are identified. The results highlight the excellent suitability of optically driven nano-cathodes for the further development of ultrafast transmission electron microscopy.

A scanning electron microscopy study of the macro-crystalline structure of 2-(2,4-dinitrobenzyl) pyridine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ware, Jacqueline; Hammond, Ernest C., Jr.

1989-01-01

The compound, 2-(2,4-dinitrobenzyl) pyridine, was synthesized in the laboratory; an introductory level electron microscopy study of the macro-crystalline structure was conducted using the scanning electron microscope (SEM). The structure of these crystals was compared with the macrostructure of the crystal of 2-(2,4-dinitrobenzyl) pyridinium bromide, the hydrobromic salt of the compound which was also synthesized in the laboratory. A scanning electron microscopy crystal study was combined with a study of the principle of the electron microscope.

Fabrication and nanoscale characterization of magnetic multilayer nanowires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elawayeb, Mohamed

Magnetic multilayers nanowires are scientifically fascinating and have potential industrial applications in many areas of advanced nanotechnology. These applications arise due to the nanoscale dimensions of nanostructures that lead to unique physical properties. Magnetic multilayer nanowires have been successfully produced by electrodeposition into templates. Anodic Aluminium Oxide (AAO) membranes were used as templates in this process; the templates were fabricated by anodization method in acidic solutions at a fixed voltage. The fabrication method of a range of magnetic multilayer nanowires is described in this study and their structure and dimensions were analyzed using scanning electron microscope (SEM), Transmission electron microscope (TEM) and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). This study is focused on the first growth of NiFe/Pt and NiFe/Fe magnetic multilayer nanowires, which were successfully fabricated by pulse electrodeposition into the channels of porous anodic aluminium oxide (AAO) templates, and characterized at the nanoscale. Individual nanowires have uniform structure and regular periodicity. The magnetic and nonmagnetic layers are polycrystalline, with randomly oriented fcc lattice structure crystallites. Chemical compositions of the individual nanowires were analyzed using TEM equipped with energy-dispersive x-ray analysis (EDX) and electron energy loss spectrometry (EELS). The electrical and magnetoresistance properties of individual magnetic multilayer nanowires have been measured inside a SEM using two sharp tip electrodes attached to in situ nanomanipulators and a new electromagnet technique. The giant magnetoresistance (GMR) effect of individual magnetic multilayer nanowires was measured in the current - perpendicular to the plane (CPP) geometry using a new in situ method at variable magnetic field strength and different orientations..

Electron beam assisted field evaporation of insulating nanowires/tubes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Blanchard, N. P., E-mail: nicholas.blanchard@univ-lyon1.fr; Niguès, A.; Choueib, M.

2015-05-11

We demonstrate field evaporation of insulating materials, specifically BN nanotubes and undoped Si nanowires, assisted by a convergent electron beam. Electron irradiation leads to positive charging at the nano-object's apex and to an important increase of the local electric field thus inducing field evaporation. Experiments performed both in a transmission electron microscope and in a scanning electron microscope are presented. This technique permits the selective evaporation of individual nanowires in complex materials. Electron assisted field evaporation could be an interesting alternative or complementary to laser induced field desorption used in atom probe tomography of insulating materials.

The contributions of Otto Scherzer (1909-1982) to the development of the electron microscope.

PubMed

Marko, Michael; Rose, Harald

2010-08-01

Otto Scherzer was one of the pioneers of theoretical electron optics. He was coauthor of the first comprehensive book on electron optics and was the first to understand that round electron lenses could not be combined to correct aberrations, as is the case in light optics. He subsequently was the first to describe several alternative means to correct spherical and chromatic aberration of electron lenses. These ideas were put into practice by his laboratory and students at Darmstadt and their successors, leading to the fully corrected electron microscopes now in operation.

Three-dimensional study of the vector potential of magnetic structures.

PubMed

Phatak, Charudatta; Petford-Long, Amanda K; De Graef, Marc

2010-06-25

The vector potential is central to a number of areas of condensed matter physics, such as superconductivity and magnetism. We have used a combination of electron wave phase reconstruction and electron tomographic reconstruction to experimentally measure and visualize the three-dimensional vector potential in and around a magnetic Permalloy structure. The method can probe the vector potential of the patterned structures with a resolution of about 13 nm. A transmission electron microscope operated in the Lorentz mode is used to record four tomographic tilt series. Measurements for a square Permalloy structure with an internal closure domain configuration are presented.

Correlative SEM SERS for quantitative analysis of dimer nanoparticles.

PubMed

Timmermans, F J; Lenferink, A T M; van Wolferen, H A G M; Otto, C

2016-11-14

A Raman microscope integrated with a scanning electron microscope was used to investigate plasmonic structures by correlative SEM-SERS analysis. The integrated Raman-SEM microscope combines high-resolution electron microscopy information with SERS signal enhancement from selected nanostructures with adsorbed Raman reporter molecules. Correlative analysis is performed for dimers of two gold nanospheres. Dimers were selected on the basis of SEM images from multi aggregate samples. The effect of the orientation of the dimer with respect to the polarization state of the laser light and the effect of the particle gap size on the Raman signal intensity is observed. Additionally, calculations are performed to simulate the electric near field enhancement. These simulations are based on the morphologies observed by electron microscopy. In this way the experiments are compared with the enhancement factor calculated with near field simulations and are subsequently used to quantify the SERS enhancement factor. Large differences between experimentally observed and calculated enhancement factors are regularly detected, a phenomenon caused by nanoscale differences between the real and 'simplified' simulated structures. Quantitative SERS experiments reveal the structure induced enhancement factor, ranging from ∼200 to ∼20 000, averaged over the full nanostructure surface. The results demonstrate correlative Raman-SEM microscopy for the quantitative analysis of plasmonic particles and structures, thus enabling a new analytical method in the field of SERS and plasmonics.

Determination of atomic-scale chemical composition at semiconductor heteroepitaxial interfaces by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy.

PubMed

Wen, C; Ma, Y J

2018-03-01

The determination of atomic structures and further quantitative information such as chemical compositions at atomic scale for semiconductor defects or heteroepitaxial interfaces can provide direct evidence to understand their formation, modification, and/or effects on the properties of semiconductor films. The commonly used method, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), suffers from difficulty in acquiring images that correctly show the crystal structure at atomic resolution, because of the limitation in microscope resolution or deviation from the Scherzer-defocus conditions. In this study, an image processing method, image deconvolution, was used to achieve atomic-resolution (∼1.0 Å) structure images of small lattice-mismatch (∼1.0%) AlN/6H-SiC (0001) and large lattice-mismatch (∼8.5%) AlSb/GaAs (001) heteroepitaxial interfaces using simulated HRTEM images of a conventional 300-kV field-emission-gun transmission electron microscope under non-Scherzer-defocus conditions. Then, atomic-scale chemical compositions at the interface were determined for the atomic intermixing and Lomer dislocation with an atomic step by analyzing the deconvoluted image contrast. Furthermore, the effect of dynamical scattering on contrast analysis was also evaluated for differently weighted atomic columns in the compositions. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Experimental approaches to well controlled studies of thin-film nucleation and growth.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Poppa, H.; Moorhead, R. D.; Heinemann, K.

1972-01-01

Particular features and the performance of two experimental systems are described for quantitative studies of thin-film nucleation and growth processes including epitaxial depositions. System I consists of a modified LEED-Auger instrument combined with high-resolution electron microscopy. System II is a UHV electron microscope adapted for in-situ deposition studies. The two systems complement each other ideally, and the combined use of both can result in a comprehensive investigation of vapor deposition processes not obtainable with any other known method.

A new method using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for preparation of anisopterous odonates.

PubMed

Del Palacio, Alejandro; Sarmiento, Patricia Laura; Javier, Muzón

2017-10-01

Anisopterous odonate male's secondary genitalia is a complex of several structures, among them the vesica spermalis is the most informative with important specific characters. The observation of those characters, mostly of membranous nature, is difficult in the Scanning Electron Microscope due to dehydration and metallization processes. In this contribution, we discuss a new and low cost procedure for the observation of these characters in the SEM, compatible with the most common agents used for preserving specimens. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Optoelectronic and Electrochemical Properties of Vanadium Pentoxide Nanowires Synthesized by Vapor-Solid Process

PubMed Central

Pan, Ko-Ying; Wei, Da-Hua

2016-01-01

Substantial synthetic vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) nanowires were successfully produced by a vapor-solid (VS) method of thermal evaporation without using precursors as nucleation sites for single crystalline V2O5 nanowires with a (110) growth plane. The micromorphology and microstructure of V2O5 nanowires were analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscope (EDS), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The spiral growth mechanism of V2O5 nanowires in the VS process is proved by a TEM image. The photo-luminescence (PL) spectrum of V2O5 nanowires shows intrinsic (410 nm and 560 nm) and defect-related (710 nm) emissions, which are ascribable to the bound of inter-band transitions (V 3d conduction band to O 2p valence band). The electrical resistivity could be evaluated as 64.62 Ω·cm via four-point probe method. The potential differences between oxidation peak and reduction peak are 0.861 V and 0.470 V for the first and 10th cycle, respectively. PMID:28335268

DNA AND THE FINE STRUCTURE OF SYNAPTIC CHROMOSOMES IN THE DOMESTIC ROOSTER (GALLUS DOMESTICUS)

PubMed Central

Coleman, James R.; Moses, Montrose J.

1964-01-01

The indium trichloride method of Watson and Aldridge (38) for staining nucleic acids for electron microscopy was employed to study the relationship of DNA to the structure of the synaptinemal complex in meiotic prophase chromosomes of the domestic rooster. The selectivity of the method was demonstrated in untreated and DNase-digested testis material by comparing the distribution of indium staining in the electron microscope to Feulgen staining and ultraviolet absorption in thicker sections seen with the light microscope. Following staining by indium, DNA was found mainly in the microfibril component of the synaptinemal complex. When DNA was known to have been removed from aldehyde-fixed material by digestion with DNase, indium stainability was also lost. However, staining of the digested material with non-selective heavy metal techniques demonstrated the presence of material other than DNA in the microfibrils and showed that little alteration in appearance of the chromosome resulted from DNA removal. The two dense lateral axial elements of the synaptinemal complex, but not the central one to any extent, also contained DNA, together with non-DNA material. PMID:14228519

Photo-induced self-cleaning and sterilizing activity of Sm3+ doped ZnO nanomaterials.

PubMed

Saif, M; Hafez, H; Nabeel, A I

2013-01-01

Highly active samarium doped zinc oxide self-cleaning and biocidal surfaces (x mol% Sm(3+)/ZnO where x=0, 1, 2 and 4 mol%) with crystalline porous structures were synthesized by hydrothermal method. Sm(3+)/ZnO thin films were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopic (EDS), UV-visible diffuse reflectance and fluorescence (FL) spectroscopy. The combination between doping and hydrothermal treatments significantly altered the morphology of ZnO into rod and plate-like nanoshapes structure and enhanced its absorption and emission of ultraviolet radiation. The photo-activity in term of quantitative determination of the active oxidative species (()OH) produced on the thin film surfaces was evaluated using fluorescent probe method. The results showed that, the hydrothermally treated 2.0 mol% Sm(3+)/ZnO film (S2) is the highly active one. The optical, structural, morphology and photo-activity properties of the highly active thin film (S2) make it promising surface for self-cleaning and sterilizing applications. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Charge collection microscopy of in-situ switchable PRAM line cells in a scanning electron microscope: Technique development and unique observations

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Oosthoek, J. L. M.; Schuitema, R. W.; Brink, G. H. ten

2015-03-15

An imaging method has been developed based on charge collection in a scanning electron microscope (SEM) that allows discrimination between the amorphous and crystalline states of Phase-change Random Access Memory (PRAM) line cells. During imaging, the cells are electrically connected and can be switched between the states and the resistance can be measured. This allows for electrical characterization of the line cells in-situ in the SEM. Details on sample and measurement system requirements are provided which turned out to be crucial for the successful development of this method. Results show that the amorphous or crystalline state of the line cellsmore » can be readily discerned, but the spatial resolution is relatively poor. Nevertheless, it is still possible to estimate the length of the amorphous mark, and also for the first time, we could directly observe the shift of the amorphous mark from one side of the line cell to the other side when the polarity of the applied (50 ns) RESET pulse was reversed.« less

Preparation of SiO2@Ag Composite Nanoparticles and Their Antimicrobial Activity.

PubMed

Qin, Rui; Li, Guian; Pan, Liping; Han, Qingyan; Sun, Yan; He, Qiao

2017-04-01

At normal atmospheric temperature, the modified sol–gel method was employed to synthesize SiO2 nanospheres (SiO2 NSs) whose average size was about 352 nm. Silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) were uniformly distributed on the surface of SiO2 nanospheres (SiO2 NSs) by applying chemical reduction method at 95 °C and the size of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) could be controlled by simply tuning the reaction time and the concentration of sodium citrate. Besides, the size, morphology, structure and optical absorption properties of SiO2@Ag composite nanoparticles were measured and characterized by laser particle size analyzer (LPSA), transmission electron microscope (TEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and ultraviolet visible absorption spectrometer (UV-Vis), respectively. Furthermore, antimicrobial effect experiments that against gram-negative bacteria (E. coli) and gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus) were carried out to characterize the antibacterial activity of synthesized SiO2@Ag composite nanoparticles. The results show that the prepared SiO2@Ag composite nanoparticles have strong antimicrobial activity, which is associated with the size of silver nanoparticles.

Infiltrating sulfur into a highly porous carbon sphere as cathode material for lithium–sulfur batteries

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhao, Xiaohui; Kim, Dul-Sun; Ahn, Hyo-Jun

2014-10-15

Highlights: • A highly porous carbon (HPC) with regular spherical morphology was synthesized. • Sulfur/HPC composites were prepared by melt–diffusion method. • Sulfur/HPC composites showed improved cyclablity and long-term cycle life. - Abstract: Sulfur composite material with a highly porous carbon sphere as the conducting container was prepared. The highly porous carbon sphere was easily synthesized with resorcinol–formaldehyde precursor as the carbon source. The morphology of the carbon was observed with field emission scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope, which showed a well-defined spherical shape. Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis indicated that it possesses a high specific surface area of 1563 m{supmore » 2} g{sup −1} and a total pore volume of 2.66 cm{sup 3} g{sup −1} with a bimodal pore size distribution, which allow high sulfur loading and easy transportation of lithium ions. Sulfur carbon composites with varied sulfur contents were prepared by melt–diffusion method and lithium sulfur cells with the sulfur composites showed improved cyclablity and long-term cycle life.« less

Preparation and encapsulation of white/yellow dual colored suspensions for electrophoretic displays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Jingjing; Li, Xiaoxu; Feng, Yaqing; Zhang, Bao

2014-11-01

C.I. Pigment Yellow 181 (PY181) composite particles encapsulated by polyethylene (PE) were prepared by dispersion polymerization method, and C.I. Pigment Yellow 110 (PY110) composite particles encapsulated by polystyrene (PS) with mini-emulsion polymerization method were achieved, respectively. The modified pigments were characterized by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope. Compared with the PE-coated PY 181 pigments, the PS-coated PY-110 particles had a narrow particle size distribution, regular spherical and average particle size of 450 nm. Suspension 1 and suspension 3 were prepared by the two composite particles dispersed in isopar M. A chromatic electrophoretic display cell consisting of yellow particles was successfully fabricated using dispersions of yellow ink particles in a mixed dielectric solvent with white particles as contrast. The response behavior and the contrast ratio to the electric voltage were also examined. The contrast ratio of pigments modified by polystyrene was 1.48, as well as the response time was 2 s, which were better than those of pigments modified by polyethylene.

Laboratory Instruments Available to Support Space Station Researchers at Marshall Space Flight Center

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Panda, Binayak; Gorti, Sridhar

2013-01-01

A number of research instruments are available at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) to support ISS researchers and their investigations. These modern analytical tools yield valuable and sometimes new informative resulting from sample characterization. Instruments include modern scanning electron microscopes equipped with field emission guns providing analytical capabilities that include angstron-level image resolution of dry, wet and biological samples. These microscopes are also equipped with silicon drift X-ray detectors (SDD) for fast yet precise analytical mapping of phases, as well as electron back-scattered diffraction (EBSD) units to map grain orientations in crystalline alloys. Sample chambers admit large samples, provide variable pressures for wet samples, and quantitative analysis software to determine phase relations. Advances in solid-state electronics have also facilitated improvements for surface chemical analysis that are successfully employed to analyze metallic materials and alloys, ceramics, slags, and organic polymers. Another analytical capability at MSFC is a mganetic sector Secondary Ion Mass Spectroscopy (SIMS) that quantitatively determines and maps light elements such as hydrogen, lithium, and boron along with their isotopes, identifies and quantifies very low level impurities even at parts per billion (ppb) levels. Still other methods available at MSFC include X-ray photo-electron spectroscopy (XPS) that can determine oxidation states of elements as well as identify polymers and measure film thicknesses on coated materials, Scanning Auger electron spectroscopy (SAM) which combines surface sensitivity, spatial lateral resolution (approximately 20 nm), and depth profiling capabilities to describe elemental compositions in near surface regions and even the chemical state of analyzed atoms. Conventional Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) for observing internal microstructures at very high magnifications and the Electron Probe Micro-analyzer (EPMA) for very precise microanalysis are available as needed by the researcher. Space Station researchers are invited to work with MSFC in analyzing their samples using these techniques.

Preparation of modified magnetic nanoparticles as a sorbent for the preconcentration and determination of cadmium ions in food and environmental water samples prior to flame atomic absorption spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mirabi, Ali; Dalirandeh, Zeinab; Rad, Ali Shokuhi

2015-05-01

A new method has been developed for the separation/preconcentration of trace level cadmium ions using diphenyl carbazone/sodium dodecyl sulfate immobilized on magnetic nanoparticle Fe3O4 as a new sorbent SPE and their determination by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). Synthesized nanoparticle was characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). Various influencing parameters on the separation and preconcentration of trace level cadmium ions such as, pH value, amount of nanoparticles, amount of diphenyl carbazone, condition of eluting solution, the effects of matrix ions were examined. The cadmium ions can be eluted from the modified magnetic nanoparticle using 1 mol L-1 HCl as a desorption reagent. The detection limit of this method for cadmium was 3.71 ng ml-1 and the R.S.D. was 0.503% (n=6). The advantages of this new method include rapidity, easy preparation of sorbents and a high concentration factor. The proposed method has been applied to the determination of Cd ions at trace levels in real samples such as, green tea, rice, tobacco, carrot, lettuce, ginseng, spice, tap water, river water, sea water with satisfactory results.

An electromagnetic/electrostatic dual cathode system for electron beam instruments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bradley, J. G.; Conley, J. M.; Wittry, D. B.; Albee, A. L.

1986-01-01

A method of providing cathode redundancy which consists of two fixed cathodes and uses electromagnetic and/or electrostatic fields to direct the electron beam to the electron optical axis is presented, with application to the cathode system of the Scanning Electron Microscope and Particle Analyzer proposed for NASA's Mariner Mark II Comet Rendezvous/Asteroid Flyby projected for the 1990s. The symmetric double deflection system chosen has the optical property that the image of the effective electron source is formed above the magnet assembly near the apparent position of the effective source, and it makes the transverse positions of the electron sources independent of the electron beam energy. Good performance of the system is found, with the sample imaging resolution being the same as for the single-axis cathode.

Synchronized voltage contrast display analysis system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnston, M. F.; Shumka, A.; Miller, E.; Evans, K. C. (Inventor)

1982-01-01

An apparatus and method for comparing internal voltage potentials of first and second operating electronic components such as large scale integrated circuits (LSI's) in which voltage differentials are visually identified via an appropriate display means are described. More particularly, in a first embodiment of the invention a first and second scanning electron microscope (SEM) are configured to scan a first and second operating electronic component respectively. The scan pattern of the second SEM is synchronized to that of the first SEM so that both simultaneously scan corresponding portions of the two operating electronic components. Video signals from each SEM corresponding to secondary electron signals generated as a result of a primary electron beam intersecting each operating electronic component in accordance with a predetermined scan pattern are provided to a video mixer and color encoder.

Biosynthesis of ZnO nanoparticles using rambutan (Nephelium lappaceumL.) peel extract and their photocatalytic activity on methyl orange dye

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karnan, Thenmozhi; Selvakumar, Stanly Arul Samuel

2016-12-01

In the present study, describes the synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles from rambutan (Nephelium lappaceumL.) peel extract via bio synthesis method and developed a new low cost technology to prepare ZnO nanoparticles. During the synthesis, fruit peel extract act as a natural ligation agent. The successfully prepared product was analyzed with some standard characterization studies like X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), UV-VIS Diffuse reflectance spectra (UV-Vis DRS), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM), High resolution transmittance electron microscope (HR-TEM), N2 adsorption-desorption isotherm and UV-Vis absorption Spectroscopy. The photocatalytic activity of ZnO nanoparticles was evaluated by photodegradation of methyl orange (MO) dye under UV light and the result depicts around 83.99% decolorisation efficiency at 120 min of illumination. In addition with photodecolorisation, mineralization was also achieved. The mineralization has been confirmed by measuring Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) values.

Infrared and Raman Spectroscopic Studies of the Antimicrobial Effects of Garlic Concentrates and Diallyl Constituents on Foodborne Pathogens

PubMed Central

Lu, Xiaonan; Rasco, Barbara A.; Kang, Dong-Hyun; Jabal, Jamie M.F.; Aston, D. Eric; Konkel, Michael E.

2012-01-01

The antimicrobial effects of garlic (Allium sativum) extract (25, 50, 75, 100, and 200 μl/ml) and diallyl sulfide (5, 10 and 20 μM) on Listeria monocytogenes and Escherichia coli O157:H7 cultivated in tryptic soy broth at 4, 22 and 35°C for up to 7 days were investigated. L. monocytogenes was more resistant to garlic extract and diallyl compounds treatment than E. coli O157:H7. Fourier transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy indicated that diallyl constituents contributed more to the antimicrobial effect than phenolic compounds. This effect was verified by Raman spectroscopy and Raman mapping on single bacteria. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) showed cell membrane damage consistent with spectroscopic observation. The degree of bacterial cell injury could be quantified using chemometric methods. PMID:21553849

Direct observation of Sr vacancies in SrTiO 3 by quantitative scanning transmission electron microscopy

DOE PAGES

Kim, Honggyu; Zhang, Jack Y.; Raghavan, Santosh; ...

2016-12-22

Unveiling the identity, spatial configuration, and microscopic structure of point defects is one of the key challenges in materials science. Here, we demonstrate that quantitative scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) can be used to directly observe Sr vacancies in SrTiO 3 and to determine the atom column relaxations around them. By combining recent advances in quantitative STEM, including variableangle, high-angle annular dark-field imaging and rigid registration methods, with frozen phonon multislice image simulations, we identify which Sr columns contain vacancies and quantify the number of vacancies in them. Here, picometer precision measurements of the surrounding atom column positions show thatmore » the nearest-neighbor Ti atoms are displaced away from the Sr vacancies. The results open up a new methodology for studying the microscopic mechanisms by which point defects control materials properties.« less

Real-Time Measurement of Nanotube Resonator Fluctuations in an Electron Microscope

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Mechanical resonators based on low-dimensional materials provide a unique platform for exploring a broad range of physical phenomena. The mechanical vibrational states are indeed extremely sensitive to charges, spins, photons, and adsorbed masses. However, the roadblock is often the readout of the resonator, because the detection of the vibrational states becomes increasingly difficult for smaller resonators. Here, we report an unprecedentedly sensitive method to detect nanotube resonators with effective masses in the 10–20 kg range. We use the beam of an electron microscope to resolve the mechanical fluctuations of a nanotube in real-time for the first time. We obtain full access to the thermally driven Brownian motion of the resonator, both in space and time domains. Our results establish the viability of carbon nanotube resonator technology at room temperature and pave the way toward the observation of novel thermodynamics regimes and quantum effects in nanomechanics. PMID:28186773

Novel perovskite coating of strontium zirconate in Inconel substrate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Venkatesh, G.; Blessto, B.; Rao, C. Santhosh Kumar; Subramanian, R.; Berchmans, L. John

2018-02-01

Thermal Barrier Coatings (TBC) provides a low thermal conductivity barrier to heat transfer from the hot gas in the engine to the surface of the coated alloy component. SrZrO3 powder are prepared by Sol Gel synthesis method. The synthesized powder sample is characterized by X Ray Diffraction Technique (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) and the results are interpreted. The Polycrystalline nature of SrZrO3 is confirmed and lattice spacing are determined in XRD. SEM shows sub-micron sized particles and a fringed pattern is observed in TEM. The IN718 specimen is Wire Cut and Sand Blasted. A SrZrO3 double layer is coated over the Inconel specimen through a Bond Coat made of NiCoCrAlY by Plasma spraying Process and also characterized. SEM analysis of the Coating shows diffusion of Fe, Sr into the substrate.

Mesosomes are a definite event in antibiotic-treated Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923.

PubMed

Santhana Raj, L; Hing, H L; Baharudin, Omar; Teh Hamidah, Z; Aida Suhana, R; Nor Asiha, C P; Vimala, B; Paramsarvaran, S; Sumarni, G; Hanjeet, K

2007-06-01

Mesosomes of Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 treated with antibiotics were examined morphologically under the electron microscope. The Transmission Electron Microscope Rapid Method was used to eliminate the artifacts due to sample processing. Mesosomes were seen in all the antibiotic treated bacteria and not in the control group. The main factor that contributes to the formation of mesosomes in the bacteria was the mode of action of the antibiotics. The continuous cytoplasmic membrane with infolding (mesosomes) as in the S. aureus ATCC 25923 is therefore confirmed as a definite pattern of membrane organization in gram positive bacteria assaulted by amikacin, gentamicin, ciprofloxacin, vancomycin and oxacillin antibiotics. Our preliminary results show oxacillin and vancomycin treated bacteria seemed to have deeper and more mesosomes than those treated with amikacin, gentamicin and ciprofloxacin. Further research is needed to ascertain whether the deep invagination and the number of mesosomes formed is associated with the types of antibiotic used.

Direct observation of Sr vacancies in SrTiO 3 by quantitative scanning transmission electron microscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kim, Honggyu; Zhang, Jack Y.; Raghavan, Santosh

Unveiling the identity, spatial configuration, and microscopic structure of point defects is one of the key challenges in materials science. Here, we demonstrate that quantitative scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) can be used to directly observe Sr vacancies in SrTiO 3 and to determine the atom column relaxations around them. By combining recent advances in quantitative STEM, including variableangle, high-angle annular dark-field imaging and rigid registration methods, with frozen phonon multislice image simulations, we identify which Sr columns contain vacancies and quantify the number of vacancies in them. Here, picometer precision measurements of the surrounding atom column positions show thatmore » the nearest-neighbor Ti atoms are displaced away from the Sr vacancies. The results open up a new methodology for studying the microscopic mechanisms by which point defects control materials properties.« less

Morphological and mechanical properties of styrene butadiene rubber/nano copper nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harandi, Maryam Hadizadeh; Alimoradi, Fakhrodin; Rowshan, Gholamhussein; Faghihi, Morteza; Keivani, Maryam; Abadyan, Mohamadreza

In this research, rubber based nanocomposites with presence of nanoparticle has been studied. Styrene butadiene rubber (SBR)/nanocopper (NC) composites were prepared using two-roll mill method. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) images showed proper dispersion of NC in the SBR matrix without substantial agglomeration of nanoparticles. To evaluate the curing properties of nanocomposite samples, swelling and cure rheometric tests were conducted. Moreover, the rheological studies were carried out over a range of shear rates. The effect of NC particles was examined on the thermal behavior of the SBR using thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). Furthermore, tensile tests were employed to investigate the capability of nanoparticles to enhance mechanical behavior of the compounds. The results showed enhancement in tensile properties with incorporation of NC to SBR matrix. Moreover, addition of NC increased shear viscosity and curing time of SBR composites.

The effects of ferrocene concentration on CNT growth on micron silica gel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Othman, Raja N.; Wilkinson, Arthur N.

2017-12-01

The growth of CNT on micron size spherical silica gel of high porosity was performed in this work. The CNT was grown via floating catalyst chemical vapor deposition method (FCCVD). The reaction temperature and time were kept at 760 °C and 3 hours, respectively. The concentration of the catalyst used, which was ferrocene, was varied from 1 wt. % to 9.6 wt. %, with respect to toluene. Striking difference in the morphology of the synthesized tubes was observed using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) images. The quality and quantity of the CNT were further characterized via Raman Spectroscopy and Thermogravimetric Analysis. Based on these characterizations, it was found that the ferrocene concentration greatly affects the morphology of the obtained CNT; with 1 wt.% and 9.6 wt.% ferrocene concentrations yield CNT of bigger outer diameters, compared to the CNT obtained from 5 wt.% ferrocene concentrations.

Color-tunable properties of Eu3+- and Dy3+-codoped Y2O3 phosphor particles

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Rare-earth phosphors are commonly used in display panels, security printing, and fluorescent lamps, and have potential applications in lasers and bioimaging. In the present study, Eu3+- and Dy3+-codoped uniform-shaped Y2O3 submicron particles were prepared using the urea homogeneous precipitation method. The structure and morphology of the resulting particles were characterized by X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscope, and field emission transmission electron microscope, whereas their optical properties were monitored by photoluminescence spectroscopy. The room-temperature luminescence color emission of the synthesized particles can be tuned from red to yellow by switching the excitation wavelength from 254 to 350 nm. The luminescence intensities of red and yellow emissions could be altered by varying the dopant concentration. Strong quenching was observed at high Eu3+ and Dy3+ concentrations in the Y2O3 host lattice. PMID:23043645

Thermal Conductivity on the Nanofluid of Graphene and Silver Nanoparticles Composite Material.

PubMed

Myekhlai, Munkhshur; Lee, Taejin; Baatar, Battsengel; Chung, Hanshik; Jeong, Hyomin

2016-02-01

The composite material consisted of graphene (GN) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has been essential topic in science and industry due to its unique thermal, electrical and antibacterial proper- ties. However, there are scarcity studies based on their thermal properties of nanofluids. Therefore, GN-AgNPs composite material was synthesized using facile and environment friendly method and further nanofluids were prepared by ultrasonication in this study. The morphological and structural investigations were carried out using scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD) as well as ultra violet (UV)-visible spectroscopy. Furthermore, thermal conductivity measurements were performed for as-prepared nanofluids. As a result of thermal conductivity study, GN-AgNPs composite material was considerably enhanced the thermal conductivity of base fluid (water) by to 6.59% for the nanofluid (0.2 wt% GN and 0.4 wt% AgNPs).

Electron beam induced deposition of silicon nanostructures from a liquid phase precursor.

PubMed

Liu, Yin; Chen, Xin; Noh, Kyong Wook; Dillon, Shen J

2012-09-28

This work demonstrates electron beam induced deposition of silicon from a SiCl(4) liquid precursor in a transmission electron microscope and a scanning electron microscope. Silicon nanodots of tunable size are reproducibly grown in controlled geometries. The volume of these features increases linearly with deposition time. The results indicate that secondary electrons generated at the substrate surface serve as the primary source of silicon reduction. However, at high current densities the influence of the primary electrons is observed to retard growth. The results demonstrate a new approach to fabricating silicon nanostructures and provide fundamental insights into the mechanism for liquid phase electron beam induced deposition.

Electron beam induced deposition of silicon nanostructures from a liquid phase precursor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Yin; Chen, Xin; Noh, Kyong Wook; Dillon, Shen J.

2012-09-01

This work demonstrates electron beam induced deposition of silicon from a SiCl4 liquid precursor in a transmission electron microscope and a scanning electron microscope. Silicon nanodots of tunable size are reproducibly grown in controlled geometries. The volume of these features increases linearly with deposition time. The results indicate that secondary electrons generated at the substrate surface serve as the primary source of silicon reduction. However, at high current densities the influence of the primary electrons is observed to retard growth. The results demonstrate a new approach to fabricating silicon nanostructures and provide fundamental insights into the mechanism for liquid phase electron beam induced deposition.

Transmission Electron Microscope Measures Lattice Parameters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pike, William T.

1996-01-01

Convergent-beam microdiffraction (CBM) in thermionic-emission transmission electron microscope (TEM) is technique for measuring lattice parameters of nanometer-sized specimens of crystalline materials. Lattice parameters determined by use of CBM accurate to within few parts in thousand. Technique developed especially for use in quantifying lattice parameters, and thus strains, in epitaxial mismatched-crystal-lattice multilayer structures in multiple-quantum-well and other advanced semiconductor electronic devices. Ability to determine strains in indivdual layers contributes to understanding of novel electronic behaviors of devices.

Green synthesis and characterization of Au@Pt core-shell bimetallic nanoparticles using gallic acid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Guojun; Zheng, Hongmei; Shen, Ming; Wang, Lei; Wang, Xiaosan

2015-06-01

In this study, we developed a facile and benign green synthesis approach for the successful fabrication of well-dispersed urchin-like Au@Pt core-shell nanoparticles (NPs) using gallic acid (GA) as both a reducing and protecting agent. The proposed one-step synthesis exploits the differences in the reduction potentials of AuCl4- and PtCl62-, where the AuCl4- ions are preferentially reduced to Au cores and the PtCl62- ions are then deposited continuously onto the Au core surface as a Pt shell. The as-prepared Au@Pt NPs were characterized by transmission electron microscope (TEM); high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HR-TEM); scanning electron microscope (SEM); UV-vis absorption spectra (UV-vis); X-ray diffraction (XRD); Fourier transmission infrared spectra (FT-IR). We systematically investigated the effects of some experimental parameters on the formation of the Au@Pt NPs, i.e., the reaction temperature, the molar ratios of HAuCl4/H2PtCl6, and the amount of GA. When polyvinylpyrrolidone K-30 (PVP) was used as a protecting agent, the Au@Pt core-shell NPs obtained using this green synthesis method were better dispersed and smaller in size. The as-prepared Au@Pt NPs exhibited better catalytic activity in the reaction where NaBH4 reduced p-nitrophenol to p-aminophenol. However, the results showed that the Au@Pt bimetallic NPs had a lower catalytic activity than the pure Au NPs obtained by the same method, which confirmed the formation of Au@Pt core-shell nanostructures because the active sites on the surfaces of the Au NPs were covered with a Pt shell.

Electron density distribution in BaPb{sub 1-x}Sb{sub x}O{sub 3} superconducting oxides studied by double nuclear magnetic resonance methods

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Piskunov, Yu. V., E-mail: piskunov@imp.uran.ru; Ogloblichev, V. V.; Arapova, I. Yu.

2011-11-15

The effect of charge disorder on the formation of an inhomogeneous state of the electron system in the conduction band in BaPb{sub 1-x}Sb{sub x}O{sub 3} superconducting oxides is investigated experimentally by NMR methods. The NMR spectra of {sup 17}O are measured systematically, and the contributions from {sup 17}O atoms with different cation nearest surroundings are identified. It is found that microscopic regions with an elevated spin density of charge carriers are formed within two coordination spheres near antimony ions. Nuclei of the superconducting phase of the oxide (regions with an elevated antimony concentration) microscopically distributed over the sample are detectedmore » in compounds with x = 0.25 and 0.33. Experiments in which a double resonance signal of the spin echo of {sup 17}O-{sup 207}Pb and {sup 17}O-{sup 121}Sb are measured in the metal phase of BaPb{sub 1-x}Sb{sub x}O{sub 3} oxides are carried out for the first time. The constants of indirect heteronuclear spin-spin {sup 17}O-{sup 207}Pb interaction are determined as functions of the local Knight shift {sub 207}Ks. The estimates of the constants of the indirect interaction between the nuclei of the nearest neighbors (O-Pb and Pb-Pb atoms) and analysis of evolution of the NMR spectra of {sup 17}O upon a change in the antimony concentration are convincing evidence in favor of the development of a microscopically inhomogeneous state of the electron system in the metal phase of BaPb{sub 1-x}Sb{sub x}O{sub 3} oxides.« less

Mars Life? - Microscopic Tubular Structures

NASA Image and Video Library

1996-08-09

This electron microscope image shows extremely tiny tubular structures that are possible microscopic fossils of bacteria-like organisms that may have lived on Mars more than 3.6 billion years ago. http://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA00285

Mars Life? - Microscopic Egg-shaped Structures

NASA Image and Video Library

1996-08-09

This electron microscope image shows egg-shaped structures, some of which may be possible microscopic fossils of Martian origin as discussed by NASA research published in the Aug. 16, 1996. http://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA00286

CHARACTERISTICS OF INDIVIDUAL PARTICLES AT A RURAL SITE IN THE EASTERN UNITED STATES

EPA Science Inventory

To determine the nature of aerosol particles in a rural area of the eastern United States, aerosol samples were collected at Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, on various substrates and analyzed by a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and a transmission electron microscope (TEM). SEM ana...

Characterization of calcium crystals in Abelia using x-ray diffraction and electron microscopes

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Localization, chemical composition, and morphology of calcium crystals in leaves and stems of Abelia mosanensis and A. ×grandiflora were analyzed with a variable pressure scanning electron microscope (VP-SEM) equipped with an X-ray diffraction system, low temperature SEM (LT-SEM) and a transmission ...

77 FR 33422 - The Regents of the University of California, et al.; Notice of Consolidated Decision on...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-06

... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration The Regents of the University of...: Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis, MO 63130. Instrument: Electron Microscope. Manufacturer: FEI.... Applicant: The Regents of the University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720. Instrument: Electron Microscope...

Variations in contrast of scanning electron microscope images for microstructure analysis of Si-based semiconductor materials.

PubMed

Itakura, Masaru; Kuwano, Noriyuki; Sato, Kaoru; Tachibana, Shigeaki

2010-08-01

Image contrasts of Si-based semiconducting materials have been investigated by using the latest scanning electron microscope with various detectors under a range of experimental conditions. Under a very low accelerating voltage (500 V), we obtained a good image contrast between crystalline SiGe whiskers and the amorphous matrix using an in-lens secondary electron (SE) detector, while the conventional topographic SE image and the compositional backscattered electron (BSE) image gave no distinct contrast. By using an angular-selective BSE (AsB) detector for wide-angle scattered BSE, on the other hand, the crystal grains in amorphous matrix can be clearly visualized as 'channelling contrast'. The image contrast is very similar to that of their transmission electron microscope image. The in-lens SE (true SE falling dots SE1) and the AsB (channelling) contrasts are quite useful to distinguish crystalline parts from amorphous ones.

Dynamic imaging with electron microscopy

ScienceCinema

Campbell, Geoffrey; McKeown, Joe; Santala, Melissa

2018-02-13

Livermore researchers have perfected an electron microscope to study fast-evolving material processes and chemical reactions. By applying engineering, microscopy, and laser expertise to the decades-old technology of electron microscopy, the dynamic transmission electron microscope (DTEM) team has developed a technique that can capture images of phenomena that are both very small and very fast. DTEM uses a precisely timed laser pulse to achieve a short but intense electron beam for imaging. When synchronized with a dynamic event in the microscope's field of view, DTEM allows scientists to record and measure material changes in action. A new movie-mode capability, which earned a 2013 R&D 100 Award from R&D Magazine, uses up to nine laser pulses to sequentially capture fast, irreversible, even one-of-a-kind material changes at the nanometer scale. DTEM projects are advancing basic and applied materials research, including such areas as nanostructure growth, phase transformations, and chemical reactions.

Energy-filtered real- and k-space secondary and energy-loss electron imaging with Dual Emission Electron spectro-Microscope: Cs/Mo(110).

PubMed

Grzelakowski, Krzysztof P

2016-05-01

Since its introduction the importance of complementary k||-space (LEED) and real space (LEEM) information in the investigation of surface science phenomena has been widely demonstrated over the last five decades. In this paper we report the application of a novel kind of electron spectromicroscope Dual Emission Electron spectroMicroscope (DEEM) with two independent electron optical channels for reciprocal and real space quasi-simultaneous imaging in investigation of a Cs covered Mo(110) single crystal by using the 800eV electron beam from an "in-lens" electron gun system developed for the sample illumination. With the DEEM spectromicroscope it is possible to observe dynamic, irreversible processes at surfaces in the energy-filtered real space and in the corresponding energy-filtered kǁ-space quasi-simultaneously in two independent imaging columns. The novel concept of the high energy electron beam sample illumination in the cathode lens based microscopes allows chemically selective imaging and analysis under laboratory conditions. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Nanoscale Imaging of Whole Cells Using a Liquid Enclosure and a Scanning Transmission Electron Microscope

PubMed Central

Peckys, Diana B.; Veith, Gabriel M.; Joy, David C.; de Jonge, Niels

2009-01-01

Nanoscale imaging techniques are needed to investigate cellular function at the level of individual proteins and to study the interaction of nanomaterials with biological systems. We imaged whole fixed cells in liquid state with a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) using a micrometer-sized liquid enclosure with electron transparent windows providing a wet specimen environment. Wet-STEM images were obtained of fixed E. coli bacteria labeled with gold nanoparticles attached to surface membrane proteins. Mammalian cells (COS7) were incubated with gold-tagged epidermal growth factor and fixed. STEM imaging of these cells resulted in a resolution of 3 nm for the gold nanoparticles. The wet-STEM method has several advantages over conventional imaging techniques. Most important is the capability to image whole fixed cells in a wet environment with nanometer resolution, which can be used, e.g., to map individual protein distributions in/on whole cells. The sample preparation is compatible with that used for fluorescent microscopy on fixed cells for experiments involving nanoparticles. Thirdly, the system is rather simple and involves only minimal new equipment in an electron microscopy (EM) laboratory. PMID:20020038

Development of a secondary electron energy analyzer for a transmission electron microscope.

PubMed

Magara, Hideyuki; Tomita, Takeshi; Kondo, Yukihito; Sato, Takafumi; Akase, Zentaro; Shindo, Daisuke

2018-04-01

A secondary electron (SE) energy analyzer was developed for a transmission electron microscope. The analyzer comprises a microchannel plate (MCP) for detecting electrons, a coil for collecting SEs emitted from the specimen, a tube for reducing the number of backscattered electrons incident on the MCP, and a retarding mesh for selecting the energy of SEs incident on the MCP. The detection of the SEs associated with charging phenomena around a charged specimen was attempted by performing electron holography and SE spectroscopy using the energy analyzer. The results suggest that it is possible to obtain the energy spectra of SEs using the analyzer and the charging states of a specimen by electron holography simultaneously.

Structural analysis of ion-implanted chemical-vapor-deposited diamond by transmission electron microscope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, N.; Deguchi, M.; Wang, C. L.; Won, J. H.; Jeon, H. M.; Mori, Y.; Hatta, A.; Kitabatake, M.; Ito, T.; Hirao, T.; Sasaki, T.; Hiraki, A.

1997-04-01

A transmission electron microscope (TEM) study of ion-implanted chemical-vapor-deposited (CVD) diamond is presented. CVD diamond used for transmission electron microscope observation was directly deposited onto Mo TEM grids. As-deposited specimens were irradiated by C (100 keV) ions at room temperature with a wide range of implantation doses (10 12-10 17/cm 2). Transmission electron diffraction (TED) patterns indicate that there exists a critical dose ( Dc) for the onset of amorphization of CVD diamond as a result of ion induced damage and the value of critical dose is confirmed to be about 3 × 10 15/cm 2. The ion-induced transformation process is clearly revealed by high resolution electron microscope (HREM) images. For a higher dose implantation (7 × 10 15/cm 2) a large amount of diamond phase is transformed into amorphous carbon and many tiny misoriented diamond blocks are found to be left in the amorphous solid. The average size of these misoriented diamond blocks is only about 1-2 nm. Further bombardment (10 17/cm 2) almost kills all of the diamond phase within the irradiated volume and moreover leads to local formation of micropolycrystalline graphite.

Visualization and characterization of engineered nanoparticles in complex environmental and food matrices using atmospheric scanning electron microscopy.

PubMed

Luo, P; Morrison, I; Dudkiewicz, A; Tiede, K; Boyes, E; O'Toole, P; Park, S; Boxall, A B

2013-04-01

Imaging and characterization of engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) in water, soils, sediment and food matrices is very important for research into the risks of ENPs to consumers and the environment. However, these analyses pose a significant challenge as most existing techniques require some form of sample manipulation prior to imaging and characterization, which can result in changes in the ENPs in a sample and in the introduction of analytical artefacts. This study therefore explored the application of a newly designed instrument, the atmospheric scanning electron microscope (ASEM), which allows the direct characterization of ENPs in liquid matrices and which therefore overcomes some of the limitations associated with existing imaging methods. ASEM was used to characterize the size distribution of a range of ENPs in a selection of environmental and food matrices, including supernatant of natural sediment, test medium used in ecotoxicology studies, bovine serum albumin and tomato soup under atmospheric conditions. The obtained imaging results were compared to results obtained using conventional imaging by transmission electron microscope (TEM) and SEM as well as to size distribution data derived from nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA). ASEM analysis was found to be a complementary technique to existing methods that is able to visualize ENPs in complex liquid matrices and to provide ENP size information without extensive sample preparation. ASEM images can detect ENPs in liquids down to 30 nm and to a level of 1 mg L(-1) (9×10(8) particles mL(-1) , 50 nm Au ENPs). The results indicate ASEM is a highly complementary method to existing approaches for analyzing ENPs in complex media and that its use will allow those studying to study ENP behavior in situ, something that is currently extremely challenging to do. © 2013 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2013 Royal Microscopical Society.

An investigation of nitride precipitates in archaeological iron artefacts from Poland.

PubMed

Kedzierski, Z; Stepiński, J; Zielińska-Lipiec, A

2010-03-01

The paper describes the investigations of nitride precipitates in a spearhead and a sword found in the territory of Poland, in cremation graveyards of the Przeworsk Culture, dated to the Roman Period. Three different techniques of the examination of nitride precipitates were employed: optical microscope, scanning electron microscope (scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer) and transmission electron microscope. Two types of precipitates have been observed, and their plate-like shape was demonstrated. The large precipitate has been confirmed to be gamma'-Fe(4)N, whereas the small one has been identified as alpha''-Fe(16)N(2). The origin of nitride precipitates in archaeological iron artefacts from Poland is probably a result of the manufacturing process or cremation as part of burial rites. An examination of available iron artefacts indicates that nitride precipitates (have only limited effect on mechanical properties) influence the hardness of metal only to a very limited degree.

Growth of ZnO nanorods on glass substrate deposited using dip coating method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rani, Rozina Abdul; Ghafar, Safiah Ab; Zoolfakar, Ahmad Sabirin; Rusop, M.

2018-05-01

ZnO unique properties make it attractive for electronics and optoelectronics application. There are varieties synthesis of ZnO nanostructure but one of the best ways is by using dip coating method due to its simplicity, low cost and reliability. This research investigated the effect of precursor concentration on the morphology of ZnO nanorods using dip coating technique. ZnO nanorods is synthesized by using zinc nitrate as precursor and glass slide as substrate. The morphology of ZnO is characterized using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM). By using different concentration of precursor, each outcome demonstrated diverse morphologies.

Rapid contrast evaluation method based on affinity beads and backscattered electron imaging for the screening of electron stains.

PubMed

Kaku, Hiroki; Inoue, Kanako; Muranaka, Yoshinori; Park, Pyoyun; Ikeda, Kenichi

2015-10-01

Uranyl salts are toxic and radioactive; therefore, several studies have been conducted to screen for substitutes of electron stains. In this regard, the contrast evaluation process is time consuming and the results obtained are inconsistent. In this study, we developed a novel contrast evaluation method using affinity beads and a backscattered electron image (BSEI), obtained using scanning electron microscopy. The contrast ratios of BSEI in each electron stain treatment were correlated with those of transmission electron microscopic images. The affinity beads bound to cell components independently. Protein and DNA samples were enhanced by image contrast treated with electron stains; however, this was not observed for sugars. Protein-conjugated beads showed an additive effect of image contrast when double-stained with lead. However, additive effect of double staining was not observed in DNA-conjugated beads. The varying chemical properties of oligopeptides showed differences in image contrast when treated with each electron stain. This BSEI-based evaluation method not only enables screening for alternate electron stains, but also helps analyze the underlying mechanisms of electron staining of cellular structures. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Japanese Society of Microscopy. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yashchuk, Valeriy V; Conley, Raymond; Anderson, Erik H

Verification of the reliability of metrology data from high quality x-ray optics requires that adequate methods for test and calibration of the instruments be developed. For such verification for optical surface profilometers in the spatial frequency domain, a modulation transfer function (MTF) calibration method based on binary pseudo-random (BPR) gratings and arrays has been suggested [Proc. SPIE 7077-7 (2007), Opt. Eng. 47(7), 073602-1-5 (2008)} and proven to be an effective calibration method for a number of interferometric microscopes, a phase shifting Fizeau interferometer, and a scatterometer [Nucl. Instr. and Meth. A 616, 172-82 (2010)]. Here we describe the details ofmore » development of binary pseudo-random multilayer (BPRML) test samples suitable for characterization of scanning (SEM) and transmission (TEM) electron microscopes. We discuss the results of TEM measurements with the BPRML test samples fabricated from a WiSi2/Si multilayer coating with pseudo randomly distributed layers. In particular, we demonstrate that significant information about the metrological reliability of the TEM measurements can be extracted even when the fundamental frequency of the BPRML sample is smaller than the Nyquist frequency of the measurements. The measurements demonstrate a number of problems related to the interpretation of the SEM and TEM data. Note that similar BPRML test samples can be used to characterize x-ray microscopes. Corresponding work with x-ray microscopes is in progress.« less

Collagen fibre arrangement in the skin of the pig.

PubMed Central

Meyer, W; Neurand, K; Radke, B

1982-01-01

The arrangement and proportion of collagen fibres and fibre bundles in the dermis of the pig have been investigated with light microscopical (Nomarski's interference contrast, polarization optics) and scanning electron microscopical methods. Skin samples were obtained from different body regions of wild boars, domestic pigs and miniature pigs. All the methods used have demonstrated that the bulk of the dermis is dominated by a massive three dimensional network of collagen fibres and fibre bundles, which cross each other in two main directions. Several smaller fibre bundles pass through the network in various other directions, constructing a densely interwoven fibre pattern. Differences were obvious between the body regions and the animals investigated. Images Fig. 1 Figs. 2-5 Fig. 6 Figs. 7, 8 Figs. 9-11 PMID:7076540

Stripe order in the underdoped region of the two-dimensional Hubbard model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Bo-Xiao; Chung, Chia-Min; Corboz, Philippe; Ehlers, Georg; Qin, Ming-Pu; Noack, Reinhard M.; Shi, Hao; White, Steven R.; Zhang, Shiwei; Chan, Garnet Kin-Lic

2017-12-01

Competing inhomogeneous orders are a central feature of correlated electron materials, including the high-temperature superconductors. The two-dimensional Hubbard model serves as the canonical microscopic physical model for such systems. Multiple orders have been proposed in the underdoped part of the phase diagram, which corresponds to a regime of maximum numerical difficulty. By combining the latest numerical methods in exhaustive simulations, we uncover the ordering in the underdoped ground state. We find a stripe order that has a highly compressible wavelength on an energy scale of a few kelvin, with wavelength fluctuations coupled to pairing order. The favored filled stripe order is different from that seen in real materials. Our results demonstrate the power of modern numerical methods to solve microscopic models, even in challenging settings.

Novel Starch-PVA Polymer for Microparticle Preparation and Optimization Using Factorial Design Study

PubMed Central

Chattopadhyay, Helen; De, Amit Kumar; Datta, Sriparna

2015-01-01

The aim of our present work was to optimize the ratio of a very novel polymer, starch-polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), for controlled delivery of Ornidazole. Polymer-coated drug microparticles were prepared by emulsion method. Microscopic study, scanning electron microscopic study, and atomic force microscopic study revealed that the microparticles were within 10 micrometers of size with smooth spherical shape. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed absence of drug polymer interaction. A statistical 32 full factorial design was used to study the effect of different concentration of starch and PVA on the drug release profile. The three-dimensional plots gave us an idea about the contribution of each factor on the release kinetics. Hence this novel polymer of starch and polyvinyl alcohol can be utilized for control release of the drug from a targeted delivery device. PMID:27347511

Aberration corrected 1.2-MV cold field-emission transmission electron microscope with a sub-50-pm resolution

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Akashi, Tetsuya; Takahashi, Yoshio; Tanigaki, Toshiaki, E-mail: toshiaki.tanigaki.mv@hitachi.com

2015-02-16

Atomic-resolution electromagnetic field observation is critical to the development of advanced materials and to the unveiling of their fundamental physics. For this purpose, a spherical-aberration corrected 1.2-MV cold field-emission transmission electron microscope has been developed. The microscope has the following superior properties: stabilized accelerating voltage, minimized electrical and mechanical fluctuation, and coherent electron emission. These properties have enabled to obtain 43-pm information transfer. On the bases of these performances, a 43-pm resolution has been obtained by correcting lens aberrations up to the third order. Observations of GaN [411] thin crystal showed a projected atomic locations with a separation of 44 pm.

Detection of secondary and backscattered electrons for 3D imaging with multi-detector method in VP/ESEM.

PubMed

Slówko, Witold; Wiatrowski, Artur; Krysztof, Michał

2018-01-01

The paper considers some major problems of adapting the multi-detector method for three-dimensional (3D) imaging of wet bio-medical samples in Variable Pressure/Environmental Scanning Electron Microscope (VP/ESEM). The described method pertains to "single-view techniques", which to create the 3D surface model utilise a sequence of 2D SEM images captured from a single view point (along the electron beam axis) but illuminated from four directions. The basis of the method and requirements resulting from them are given for the detector systems of secondary (SE) and backscattered electrons (BSE), as well as designs of the systems which could work in variable conditions. The problems of SE detection with application of the Pressure Limiting Aperture (PLA) as the signal collector are discussed with respect to secondary electron backscattering by a gaseous environment. However, the authors' attention is turned mainly to the directional BSE detection, realized in two ways. The high take off angle BSE were captured through PLA with use of the quadruple semiconductor detector placed inside the intermediate chamber, while BSE starting at lower angles were detected by the four-folded ionization device working in the sample chamber environment. The latter relied on a conversion of highly energetic BSE into low energetic SE generated on walls and a gaseous environment of the deep discharge gap oriented along the BSE velocity direction. The converted BSE signal was amplified in an ionising avalanche developed in the electric field arranged transversally to the gap. The detector system operation is illustrated with numerous computer simulations and examples of experiments and 3D images. The latter were conducted in a JSM 840 microscope with its combined detector-vacuum equipment which could extend capabilities of this high vacuum instrument toward elevated pressures (over 1kPa) and environmental conditions. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Helium ion beam induced electron emission from insulating silicon nitride films under charging conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petrov, Yu. V.; Anikeva, A. E.; Vyvenko, O. F.

2018-06-01

Secondary electron emission from thin silicon nitride films of different thicknesses on silicon excited by helium ions with energies from 15 to 35 keV was investigated in the helium ion microscope. Secondary electron yield measured with Everhart-Thornley detector decreased with the irradiation time because of the charging of insulating films tending to zero or reaching a non-zero value for relatively thick or thin films, respectively. The finiteness of secondary electron yield value, which was found to be proportional to electronic energy losses of the helium ion in silicon substrate, can be explained by the electron emission excited from the substrate by the helium ions. The method of measurement of secondary electron energy distribution from insulators was suggested, and secondary electron energy distribution from silicon nitride was obtained.

Spin microscope based on optically detected magnetic resonance

DOEpatents

Berman, Gennady P [Los Alamos, NM; Chernobrod, Boris M [Los Alamos, NM

2010-06-29

The invention relates to scanning magnetic microscope which has a photoluminescent nanoprobe implanted in the tip apex of an atomic force microscope (AFM), a scanning tunneling microscope (STM) or a near-field scanning optical microscope (NSOM) and exhibits optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) in the vicinity of unpaired electron spins or nuclear magnetic moments in the sample material. The described spin microscope has demonstrated nanoscale lateral resolution and single spin sensitivity for the AFM and STM embodiments.

Spin microscope based on optically detected magnetic resonance

DOEpatents

Berman, Gennady P.; Chernobrod, Boris M.

2009-11-10

The invention relates to scanning magnetic microscope which has a photoluminescent nanoprobe implanted in the tip apex of an atomic force microscope (AFM), a scanning tunneling microscope (STM) or a near-field scanning optical microscope (NSOM) and exhibits optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) in the vicinity of impaired electron spins or nuclear magnetic moments in the sample material. The described spin microscope has demonstrated nanoscale lateral resolution and single spin sensitivity for the AFM and STM embodiments.

Spin microscope based on optically detected magnetic resonance

DOEpatents

Berman, Gennady P.; Chernobrod, Boris M.

2007-12-11

The invention relates to scanning magnetic microscope which has a photoluminescent nanoprobe implanted in the tip apex of an atomic force microscope (AFM), a scanning tunneling microscope (STM) or a near-field scanning optical microscope (NSOM) and exhibits optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) in the vicinity of unpaired electron spins or nuclear magnetic moments in the sample material. The described spin microscope has demonstrated nanoscale lateral resolution and single spin sensitivity for the AFM and STM embodiments.

Spin microscope based on optically detected magnetic resonance

DOEpatents

Berman, Gennady P [Los Alamos, NM; Chernobrod, Boris M [Los Alamos, NM

2010-07-13

The invention relates to scanning magnetic microscope which has a photoluminescent nanoprobe implanted in the tip apex of an atomic force microscope (AFM), a scanning tunneling microscope (STM) or a near-field scanning optical microscope (NSOM) and exhibits optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) in the vicinity of unpaired electron spins or nuclear magnetic moments in the sample material. The described spin microscope has demonstrated nanoscale lateral resolution and single spin sensitivity for the AFM and STM embodiments.

Spin microscope based on optically detected magnetic resonance

DOEpatents

Berman, Gennady P [Los Alamos, NM; Chernobrod, Boris M [Los Alamos, NM

2009-10-27

The invention relates to scanning magnetic microscope which has a photoluminescent nanoprobe implanted in the tip apex of an atomic force microscope (AFM), a scanning tunneling microscope (STM) or a near-field scanning optical microscope (NSOM) and exhibits optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) in the vicinity of unpaired electron spins or nuclear magnetic moments in the sample material. The described spin microscope has demonstrated nanoscale lateral resolution and single spin sensitivity for the AFM and STM embodiments.

Photovoltaic characteristics of natural light harvesting dye sensitized solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hafez, H. S.; Shenouda, S. S.; Fadel, M.

2018-03-01

In this work of research, anthocyanin as a natural dye obtained from raspberry fruits, was used and tested as a photon harvesting/electron donating dye in titanium dioxide nanoparticle-based DSSCs. A working photoelectrode made from TiO2 nanoparticles with an average particle size (10-40 nm) that is coated on Florine doped tin-oxide substrate, was prepared via a simple and low cost hydrothermal method. A detailed structural and morphological analysis of the TiO2 photoactive electrode was investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), diffuse reflectance spectrometer, transmission electron microscope (TEM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Complete photovoltaic characteristics including (current, voltage, outpower, and responsivity) of the natural anthocyanin based dye sensitized solar cell have been investigated under different illumination intensity ranging from 10 to 100 mW.cm- 2. The cell responsivity and efficiency of the fabricated solar cell under different illumination intensity were found to be in the range (R = 15.6-23.8 mA.W- 1 and η = 0.13-0.25) at AM = 1.5 conditions. This study is important for enhancing the future applications of the promising DSSC technology.

Cellulose aerogels functionalized with polypyrrole and silver nanoparticles: In-situ synthesis, characterization and antibacterial activity.

PubMed

Wan, Caichao; Li, Jian

2016-08-01

Green porous and lightweight cellulose aerogels have been considered as promising candidates to substitute some petrochemical host materials to support various nanomaterials. In this work, waste wheat straw was collected as feedstock to fabricate cellulose hydrogels, and a green inexpensive NaOH/polyethylene glycol solution was used as cellulose solvent. Prior to freeze-drying treatment, the cellulose hydrogels were integrated with polypyrrole and silver nanoparticles by easily-operated in-situ oxidative polymerization of pyrrole using silver ions as oxidizing agent. The tri-component hybrid aerogels were characterized by scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, selected area electron diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Moreover, the antibacterial activity of the hybrid aerogels against Escherichia coli (Gram-negative), Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive) and Listeria monocytogenes (intracellular bacteria) was qualitatively and quantitatively investigated by parallel streak method and determination of minimal inhibitory concentration, respectively. This work provides an example of combining cellulose aerogels with nanomaterials, and helps to develop novel forms of cellulose-based functional materials. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Ligand exchange synthesis of organometallic Rh nanoparticles and application in explosive sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Srivastav, Amit K.; Agrawal, Bhavesh; Swami, Bhavya; Agrawal, Yadvendra K.; Maity, Prasenjit

2017-06-01

Alkyne {phenyl acetylene (PA) and 9-ethynylphenanthrene (EPT)}-ligated Rh nanoparticles ( 1 and 2, respectively) with mean diameter of 1.5 ± 0.2 nm were synthesized via a facile and high-yield biphasic ligand exchange protocol using similar sized ethylene glycol (EG)-stabilized Rh nanoparticles as precursors (EG:Rh). The synthesized organometallic Rh nanoparticles were convincingly characterized using several spectroscopic and microscopic techniques, e.g., Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), optical absorption spectroscopy (UV-Vis), photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and transmission electron microscope (TEM). We propose that the syntheses mechanism relies on catalytic acetylenic (≡C-H, carbon-hydrogen) bond breaking by EG:Rh followed by strong metal-carbon bond formation with a vinyldiene (>C═C═M) motif. The obtained 1 and 2 showed luminescence property, which arises from ligand structure through intraparticle conjugation. Electron-rich phenanthrene-ligated Rh nanoparticles ( 2) showed good sensing performance for detection of electron deficient nitro-aromatic explosive molecules (NA) in solution phase through luminescence quenching method.

Automated detection of fluorescent cells in in-resin fluorescence sections for integrated light and electron microscopy.

PubMed

Delpiano, J; Pizarro, L; Peddie, C J; Jones, M L; Griffin, L D; Collinson, L M

2018-04-26

Integrated array tomography combines fluorescence and electron imaging of ultrathin sections in one microscope, and enables accurate high-resolution correlation of fluorescent proteins to cell organelles and membranes. Large numbers of serial sections can be imaged sequentially to produce aligned volumes from both imaging modalities, thus producing enormous amounts of data that must be handled and processed using novel techniques. Here, we present a scheme for automated detection of fluorescent cells within thin resin sections, which could then be used to drive automated electron image acquisition from target regions via 'smart tracking'. The aim of this work is to aid in optimization of the data acquisition process through automation, freeing the operator to work on other tasks and speeding up the process, while reducing data rates by only acquiring images from regions of interest. This new method is shown to be robust against noise and able to deal with regions of low fluorescence. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Microscopy published by JohnWiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Royal Microscopical Society.

Formation of pure Cu nanocrystals upon post-growth annealing of Cu-C material obtained from focused electron beam induced deposition: comparison of different methods.

PubMed

Szkudlarek, Aleksandra; Rodrigues Vaz, Alfredo; Zhang, Yucheng; Rudkowski, Andrzej; Kapusta, Czesław; Erni, Rolf; Moshkalev, Stanislav; Utke, Ivo

2015-01-01

In this paper we study in detail the post-growth annealing of a copper-containing material deposited with focused electron beam induced deposition (FEBID). The organometallic precursor Cu(II)(hfac)2 was used for deposition and the results were compared to that of compared to earlier experiments with (hfac)Cu(I)(VTMS) and (hfac)Cu(I)(DMB). Transmission electron microscopy revealed the deposition of amorphous material from Cu(II)(hfac)2. In contrast, as-deposited material from (hfac)Cu(I)(VTMS) and (hfac)Cu(I)(DMB) was nano-composite with Cu nanocrystals dispersed in a carbonaceous matrix. After annealing at around 150-200 °C all deposits showed the formation of pure Cu nanocrystals at the outer surface of the initial deposit due to the migration of Cu atoms from the carbonaceous matrix containing the elements carbon, oxygen, and fluorine. Post-irradiation of deposits with 200 keV electrons in a transmission electron microscope favored the formation of Cu nanocrystals within the carbonaceous matrix of freestanding rods and suppressed the formation on their surface. Electrical four-point measurements on FEBID lines from Cu(hfac)2 showed five orders of magnitude improvement in conductivity when being annealed conventionally and by laser-induced heating in the scanning electron microscope chamber.

Low-energy electron point projection microscopy/diffraction study of suspended graphene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hsu, Wei-Hao; Chang, Wei-Tse; Lin, Chun-Yueh; Chang, Mu-Tung; Hsieh, Chia-Tso; Wang, Chang-Ran; Lee, Wei-Li; Hwang, Ing-Shouh

2017-11-01

In this work, we present our study of suspended graphene with low-energy electrons based on a point projection microscopic/diffractive imaging technique. Both exfoliated and chemical vapor deposition (CVD) graphene samples were studied in an ultra-high vacuum chamber. This method allows imaging of individual adsorbates at the nanometer scale and characterizing graphene layers, graphene lattice orientations, ripples on graphene membranes, etc. We found that long-duration exposure to low-energy electron beams induced aggregation of adsorbates on graphene when the electron dose rate was above a certain level. We also discuss the potential of this technique to conduct coherent diffractive imaging for determining the atomic structures of biological molecules adsorbed on suspended graphene.

Linking Regions between Helices in Bacteriorhodopsin Revealed

PubMed Central

Agard, David A.; Stroud, Robert M.

1982-01-01

Three-dimensional electron-microscopic structural analysis requires the combination of many different tilted views of the same specimen. The relative difficulty of tilting the sample to high angles >60° without introducing severe distortion due to different focal distances across the specimen entails that the observable range of electron diffraction data is often limited to this range of angles. Thus, it is generally not possible to observe the diffraction maxima that lie within the conical region of reciprocal space around the direction perpendicular to the electron microscope grid. The absence of data in this region leads to a predictable distortion in the object, and for ±60° tilting makes the resolution essentially twice as bad in the direction perpendicular to the grid as it is for the in-plane image. Constrained density map modification and refinement methods can significantly reduce these effects. A method has been developed, tested on model cases, and applied to the electron-microscopic structure determination of bacteriorhodopsin in order to visualize the location of linking regions between helices. Electron-microscopic structural analysis of bacteriorhodopsin (Henderson and Unwin. 1975 Nature [Lond.] 257:28-32.) showed that the molecule consists of seven rods of density each nearly spanning the lipid bilayer. Owing to the distortion introduced by the missing conical region of reciprocal space data, no density was visible for the polypeptide segments linking the α-helices. Density in the refined maps indicates the location of at least five of the extrahelical segments of the polypeptide. The total number of possible ways of interconnecting the helices is reduced from 7! (5,040) to the five most consistent possibilities without recourse to other considerations. In addition, the density for the helical regions is more uniform and cylindrical throughout their length, and the length of the helices increases from 35 to 45 Å, close to the membrane thickness of 49 Å obtained for membranes dried in vacuo. Only three of the five structures consistent with the location of observed linkers place the seventh helix, onto which the chromophore can be attached by reduction in the light, at a position consistent with the main peak for deuterated retinal in the structure, as derived from neutron diffraction analysis. Two of these models are also consistent with the possible location of some of the reduced chromophore on helix B, at lys 40/41 after reduction in the dark, as well as lys 216 on helix G. ImagesFIGURE 8 PMID:7074187

3D-profile measurement of advanced semiconductor features by using FIB as reference metrology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takamasu, Kiyoshi; Iwaki, Yuuki; Takahashi, Satoru; Kawada, Hiroki; Ikota, Masami

2017-03-01

A novel method of sub-nanometer uncertainty for the 3D-profile measurement and LWR (Line Width Roughness) measurement by using FIB (Focused Ion Beam) processing, and TEM (Transmission Electron Microscope) and CD-SEM (Critical Dimension Scanning Electron Microscope) images measurement is proposed to standardize 3D-profile measurement through reference metrology. In this article, we apply the methodology to line profile measurements and roughness measurement of advanced FinFET (Fin-shaped Field-Effect Transistor) features. The FinFET features are horizontally sliced as a thin specimen by FIB micro sampling system. Horizontally images of the specimens are obtained then by a planar TEM. LWR is calculated from the edges positions on TEM images. Moreover, we already have demonstrated the novel on-wafer 3D-profile metrology as "FIB-to-CDSEM method" with FIB slope cut and CD-SEM measuring. Using the method, a few micrometers wide on a wafer is coated and cut by 45-degree slope using FIB tool. Then, the wafer is transferred to CD-SEM to measure the cross section image by top down CD-SEM measurement. We applied FIB-to-CDSEM method to a CMOS image sensor feature. The 45-degree slope cut surface is observed using AFM. The surface profile of slope cut surface and line profiles are analyzed for improving the accuracy of FIB-to-CDSEM method.

The fabrication of visible light responsive Ag-SiO2 co-doped TiO2 thin films by the sol-gel method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dam Le, Duy; Dung Dang, Thi My; Thang Chau, Vinh; Chien Dang, Mau

2010-03-01

In this study we have successfully deposited Ag-SiO2 co-doped TiO2 thin films on glass substrates by the sol-gel method. After being coated by a dip coating method, the film was transparent, smooth and had strong adhesion on the glass surface. The deposited film was characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and atomic force microscope (AFM) to investigate its crystallization, transmittance and surface structure. The antifogging ability is explained by the contact angle of water on the surface of the glass substrates under visible-light. The obtained results show that Ag-SiO2 co-doped TiO2 film has potential applications for self cleaning and anti-bacterial ceramic tiles.

Method for lateral force calibration in atomic force microscope using MEMS microforce sensor.

PubMed

Dziekoński, Cezary; Dera, Wojciech; Jarząbek, Dariusz M

2017-11-01

In this paper we present a simple and direct method for the lateral force calibration constant determination. Our procedure does not require any knowledge about material or geometrical parameters of an investigated cantilever. We apply a commercially available microforce sensor with advanced electronics for direct measurement of the friction force applied by the cantilever's tip to a flat surface of the microforce sensor measuring beam. Due to the third law of dynamics, the friction force of the equal value tilts the AFM cantilever. Therefore, torsional (lateral force) signal is compared with the signal from the microforce sensor and the lateral force calibration constant is determined. The method is easy to perform and could be widely used for the lateral force calibration constant determination in many types of atomic force microscopes. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Scanning electron microscope view of iron crystal growing on pyroxene crystal

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1972-01-01

A scanning electron microscope photograph of a four-micron size iron crystal growing on a pyroxene crystal (calcium-magnesium-iron silicate) from the Apollo 15 Hadley-Apennino lunar landing site. The well developed crystal faces indicate that the crystal was formed from a hot vapor as the rock was cooling.

Deciphering the physics and chemistry of perovskites with transmission electron microscopy.

PubMed

Polking, Mark J

2016-03-28

Perovskite oxides exhibit rich structural complexity and a broad range of functional properties, including ferroelectricity, ferromagnetism, and superconductivity. The development of aberration correction for the transmission electron microscope and concurrent progress in electron spectroscopy, electron holography, and other techniques has fueled rapid progress in the understanding of the physics and chemistry of these materials. New techniques based on the transmission electron microscope are first surveyed, and the applications of these techniques for the study of the structure, chemistry, electrostatics, and dynamics of perovskite oxides are then explored in detail, with a particular focus on ferroelectric materials.

Characterization of fission gas bubbles in irradiated U-10Mo fuel

DOE PAGES

Casella, Andrew M.; Burkes, Douglas E.; MacFarlan, Paul J.; ...

2017-06-06

A simple, repeatable method for characterization of fission gas bubbles in irradiated U-Mo fuels has been developed. This method involves mechanical potting and polishing of samples along with examination with a scanning electron microscope located outside of a hot cell. The commercially available software packages CellProfiler, MATLAB, and Mathematica are used to segment and analyze the captured images. The results are compared and contrasted. Finally, baseline methods for fission gas bubble characterization are suggested for consideration and further development.

Synthesis of gold nanoparticles with graphene oxide.

PubMed

Wang, Wenshuo; He, Dawei; Zhang, Xiqing; Duan, Jiahua; Wu, Hongpeng; Xu, Haiteng; Wang, Yongsheng

2014-05-01

Single sheets of functionalized graphene oxide are derived through chemical exfoliation of natural flake graphite. We present an effective synthetic method of graphene-gold nanoparticles hybrid nanocomposites. AFM (Atomic Force Microscope) was used to measure the thickness of the individual GO nanosheet. FTIR (Fourier transform infrared) spectroscopy was used to verify the attachment of oxygen functionalities on the surface of graphene oxide. TEM (Transmission Electron Microscope) data revealed the average diameters of the gold colloids and characterized the composite particles situation. Absorption spectroscopy showed that before and after synthesis the gold particle size did not change. Our studies indicate that the hybrid is potential substrates for catalysts and biosensors.

Spectral analysis of scattered light from flowers' petals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ozawa, Atsumi; Uehara, Tomomi; Sekiguchi, Fumihiko; Imai, Hajime

2009-07-01

A new method was developed for studying absorption characteristics of opaque samples based on the light scattering spectroscopy. Measurements were made in white, red and violet petals of Petunia hybrida, and gave the absorption spectra in a non-destructive manner without damaging the cell structures of the petal. The red petal has absorption peak at 550 nm and the violet has three absorption peaks: at 450, 670, and 550 nm. The results were discussed in correlation with the microscopic cell structures of the petal observed with optical microscope and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Only the cells placed in the surface have the pigments giving the color of the petal.

A Novel Preparation Method of SiC Reinforced Aluminum Composite Through Vertical Rotatory Furnace

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nassar, Amal Ebrahim; Nassar, Eman Ebrahim; Younis, Mona Ahmed

2018-04-01

The aluminum composite was prepared successfully by stirring using internal blade installed inside a vertical rotatory furnace. Pure aluminum was used as matrix and silicon carbide particles with 10 weight percentage as reinforcement. To evaluate the efficiency of the suggested stirrer, the microstructure of the samples was analyzed using scanning electron microscope, image analyzer software available with optical microscope and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis. Furthermore, mechanical properties were studied by measuring ultimate and yield strength, wear resistance, hardness and porosity. It was found that the particle distribution was enhanced and consequently improved the mechanical properties of the composite.

Source brightness and useful beam current of carbon nanotubes and other very small emitters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kruit, P.; Bezuijen, M.; Barth, J. E.

2006-01-01

The potential application of carbon nanotubes as electron sources in electron microscopes is analyzed. The resolution and probe current that can be obtained from a carbon nanotube emitter in a low-voltage scanning electron microscope are calculated and compared to the state of the art using Schottky electron sources. Many analytical equations for probe-size versus probe-current relations in different parameter regimes are obtained. It is shown that for most carbon nanotube emitters, the gun lens aberrations are larger than the emitters' virtual source size and thus restrict the microscope's performance. The result is that the advantages of the higher brightness of nanotube emitters are limited unless the angular emission current is increased over present day values or the gun lens aberrations are decreased. For some nanotubes with a closed cap, it is known that the emitted electron beam is coherent over the full emission cone. We argue that for such emitters the parameter ``brightness'' becomes meaningless. The influence of phase variations in the electron wave front emitted from such a nanotube emitter on the focusing of the electron beam is analyzed.

Comparison of two methods of visual magnification for removal of adhesive flash during bracket placement using two types of orthodontic bonding agents

PubMed Central

Alencar, Estefania Queiroga de Santana e; Nobrega, Maria de Lourdes Martins; Dametto, Fabio Roberto; dos Santos, Patrícia Bittencourt Dutra; Pinheiro, Fabio Henrique de Sá Leitão

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of two methods of visual magnification (operating microscope and light head magnifying glass) for removal of composite flash around orthodontic metal brackets. Material and Methods: Brackets were bonded in the center of the clinical crown of sixty well-preserved human premolars. Half of the sample was bonded with conventional Transbond XT (3M Unitek TM, USA), whereas the other half was bonded with Transbond TM Plus Color Change (3M Unitek TM, USA). For each type of composite, the choice of method to remove the flash was determined by randomly distributing the teeth into the following subgroups: A (removal by naked eye, n = 10), B (removal with the aid of light head magnifying glass, under 4x magnification, n = 10), and C (removal with the aid of an operating microscope, under 40x magnification, n = 10). Brackets were debonded and teeth taken to a scanning electron microscope (SS-x-550, Shimadzu, Japan) for visualization of their buccal surface. Quantification of composite flash was performed with Image Pro Plus software, and values were compared by Kruskal-Wallis test and Dunn’s post-hoc test at 5% significance level. Results: Removal of pigmented orthodontic adhesive with the aid of light head magnifying glass proved, in general, to be advantageous in comparison to all other methods. Conclusion: There was no advantage in using Transbond TM Plus Color Change alone. Further studies are necessary to draw a more definitive conclusion in regards to the benefits of using an operating microscope. PMID:28125139

High-pressure freezing for scanning transmission electron tomography analysis of cellular organelles.

PubMed

Walther, Paul; Schmid, Eberhard; Höhn, Katharina

2013-01-01

Using an electron microscope's scanning transmission mode (STEM) for collection of tomographic datasets is advantageous compared to bright field transmission electron microscopic (TEM). For image formation, inelastic scattering does not cause chromatic aberration, since in STEM mode no image forming lenses are used after the beam has passed the sample, in contrast to regular TEM. Therefore, thicker samples can be imaged. It has been experimentally demonstrated that STEM is superior to TEM and energy filtered TEM for tomography of samples as thick as 1 μm. Even when using the best electron microscope, adequate sample preparation is the key for interpretable results. We adapted protocols for high-pressure freezing of cultivated cells from a physiological state. In this chapter, we describe optimized high-pressure freezing and freeze substitution protocols for STEM tomography in order to obtain high membrane contrast.

Transmission environmental scanning electron microscope with scintillation gaseous detection device.

PubMed

Danilatos, Gerasimos; Kollia, Mary; Dracopoulos, Vassileios

2015-03-01

A transmission environmental scanning electron microscope with use of a scintillation gaseous detection device has been implemented. This corresponds to a transmission scanning electron microscope but with addition of a gaseous environment acting both as environmental and detection medium. A commercial type of low vacuum machine has been employed together with appropriate modifications to the detection configuration. This involves controlled screening of various emitted signals in conjunction with a scintillation gaseous detection device already provided with the machine for regular surface imaging. Dark field and bright field imaging has been obtained along with other detection conditions. With a progressive series of modifications and tests, the theory and practice of a novel type of microscopy is briefly shown now ushering further significant improvements and developments in electron microscopy as a whole. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

New method for characterizing paper coating structures using argon ion beam milling and field emission scanning electron microscopy.

PubMed

Dahlström, C; Allem, R; Uesaka, T

2011-02-01

We have developed a new method for characterizing microstructures of paper coating using argon ion beam milling technique and field emission scanning electron microscopy. The combination of these two techniques produces extremely high-quality images with very few artefacts, which are particularly suited for quantitative analyses of coating structures. A new evaluation method has been developed by using marker-controlled watershed segmentation technique of the secondary electron images. The high-quality secondary electron images with well-defined pores makes it possible to use this semi-automatic segmentation method. One advantage of using secondary electron images instead of backscattered electron images is being able to avoid possible overestimation of the porosity because of the signal depth. A comparison was made between the new method and the conventional method using greyscale histogram thresholding of backscattered electron images. The results showed that the conventional method overestimated the pore area by 20% and detected around 5% more pores than the new method. As examples of the application of the new method, we have investigated the distributions of coating binders, and the relationship between local coating porosity and base sheet structures. The technique revealed, for the first time with direct evidence, the long-suspected coating non-uniformity, i.e. binder migration, and the correlation between coating porosity versus base sheet mass density, in a straightforward way. © 2010 The Authors Journal compilation © 2010 The Royal Microscopical Society.

Analysis of microscopic parameters of surface charging in polymer caused by defocused electron beam irradiation.

PubMed

Liu, Jing; Zhang, Hai-Bo

2014-12-01

The relationship between microscopic parameters and polymer charging caused by defocused electron beam irradiation is investigated using a dynamic scattering-transport model. The dynamic charging process of an irradiated polymer using a defocused 30 keV electron beam is conducted. In this study, the space charge distribution with a 30 keV non-penetrating e-beam is negative and supported by some existing experimental data. The internal potential is negative, but relatively high near the surface, and it decreases to a maximum negative value at z=6 μm and finally tend to 0 at the bottom of film. The leakage current and the surface potential behave similarly, and the secondary electron and leakage currents follow the charging equilibrium condition. The surface potential decreases with increasing beam current density, trap concentration, capture cross section, film thickness and electron-hole recombination rate, but with decreasing electron mobility and electron energy. The total charge density increases with increasing beam current density, trap concentration, capture cross section, film thickness and electron-hole recombination rate, but with decreasing electron mobility and electron energy. This study shows a comprehensive analysis of microscopic factors of surface charging characteristics in an electron-based surface microscopy and analysis. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Fully kinetic simulations of collisionless, mesothermal plasma emission: Macroscopic plume structure and microscopic electron characteristics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Yuan; Wang, Joseph

2017-03-01

This paper presents a fully kinetic particle particle-in-cell simulation study on the emission of a collisionless plasma plume consisting of cold beam ions and thermal electrons. Results are presented for both the two-dimensional macroscopic plume structure and the microscopic electron kinetic characteristics. We find that the macroscopic plume structure exhibits several distinctive regions, including an undisturbed core region, an electron cooling expansion region, and an electron isothermal expansion region. The properties of each region are determined by microscopic electron kinetic characteristics. The division between the undisturbed region and the cooling expansion region approximately matches the Mach line generated at the edge of the emission surface, and that between the cooling expansion region and the isothermal expansion region approximately matches the potential well established in the beam. The interactions between electrons and the potential well lead to a new, near-equilibrium state different from the initial distribution for the electrons in the isothermal expansion region. The electron kinetic characteristics in the plume are also very anisotropic. As the electron expansion process is mostly non-equilibrium and anisotropic, the commonly used assumption that the electrons in a collisionless, mesothermal plasma plume may be treated as a single equilibrium fluid in general is not valid.

Glycogen in the Nervous System. I; Methods for Light and Electron Microscopy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Estable, Rosita F. De; Estable-Puig, J. F.; Miquel, J.

1964-01-01

'l'he relative value of different methods for combined light and electron microscopical studies of glycogen in the nervous tissue was investigated. Picroalcoholic fixatives preserve glycogen in a considerable amount but give an inadequate morphological image of glycogen distribution and are unsuitable for ultrastructural studies. Fixation by perfusion, with Dalton's chromeosmic fluid seems adequate for ultrastructural cytochemistry of glycogen. Furthermore it permits routine paraffin embedding of brain slices adjacent to those used for electron microscopy. Dimedone blocking is a necessary step for a selective staining of glycogen with PAS after osmic fixation. Enzymatic removal of glycogen in osmic fixed nervous tissue can be done In paraffin-embedded tissue. It can also be performed in glycolmethacrylate-embedded tissue without removal of the embedding medium. Paraphenylenediamine stains glycogen following periodic acid oxidation.

An Effective Method of Preparing Sections of Bacillus polymyxa Sporangia and Spores for Electron Microscopy

PubMed Central

Holbert, Pauline E.

1960-01-01

Bacillus polymyxa sporangia and spores were prepared for examination in the electron microscope by methods whose critical features were apparently: judicious use of vacuum, to encourage complete penetration of the embedding medium; the use of epoxy resins as embedding media; and cutting of the thin sections with a diamond knife. Electron micrographs of material prepared in this manner exhibit undeformed sporangial sections. Some of the structures revealed have been shown before, though perhaps less distinctly; other structures are revealed here for the first time. While this single study does not pretend to elucidate all the complexities of sporulation in bacteria, these and similar images should make this possible, and some mention of the preparatory techniques that lead to them seems advisable at this time. PMID:14402552

The trapping and distribution of charge in polarized polymethylmethacrylate under electron-beam irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Z. G.; Gong, H.; Ong, C. K.

1997-06-01

A scanning electron microscope (SEM) mirror-image method (MIM) is employed to investigate the charging behaviour of polarized polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) under electron-beam irradiation. An ellipsoid is used to model the trapped charge distribution and a fitting method is employed to calculate the total amount of the trapped charge and its distribution parameters. The experimental results reveal that the charging ability decreases with increasing applied electric field, which polarizes the PMMA sample, whereas the trapped charge distribution is elongated along the direction of the applied electric field and increases with increasing applied electric field. The charges are believed to be trapped in some localization states, of activation energy and radius estimated to be about 19.6 meV and 0022-3727/30/11/004/img6, respectively.

Controlled chain polymerisation and chemical soldering for single-molecule electronics.

PubMed

Okawa, Yuji; Akai-Kasaya, Megumi; Kuwahara, Yuji; Mandal, Swapan K; Aono, Masakazu

2012-05-21

Single functional molecules offer great potential for the development of novel nanoelectronic devices with capabilities beyond today's silicon-based devices. To realise single-molecule electronics, the development of a viable method for connecting functional molecules to each other using single conductive polymer chains is required. The method of initiating chain polymerisation using the tip of a scanning tunnelling microscope (STM) is very useful for fabricating single conductive polymer chains at designated positions and thereby wiring single molecules. In this feature article, developments in the controlled chain polymerisation of diacetylene compounds and the properties of polydiacetylene chains are summarised. Recent studies of "chemical soldering", a technique enabling the covalent connection of single polydiacetylene chains to single functional molecules, are also introduced. This represents a key step in advancing the development of single-molecule electronics.

Focusing mirrors for enhanced neutron radiography with thermal neutrons and application for irradiated nuclear fuel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rai, Durgesh K.; Abir, Muhammad; Wu, Huarui; Khaykovich, Boris; Moncton, David E.

2018-01-01

Neutron radiography is a powerful method of probing the structure of materials based on attenuation of neutrons. This method is most suitable for materials containing heavy metals, which are not transparent to X-rays, for example irradiated nuclear fuel and other nuclear materials. Neutron radiography is one of the first non-distractive post-irradiated examination methods, which is applied to gain an overview of the integrity of irradiated nuclear fuel and other nuclear materials. However, very powerful gamma radiation emitted by the samples is damaging to the electronics of digital imaging detectors and has so far precluded the use of modern detectors. Here we describe a design of a neutron microscope based on focusing mirrors suitable for thermal neutrons. As in optical microscopes, the sample is separated from the detector, decreasing the effect of gamma radiation. In addition, the application of mirrors would result in a thirty-fold gain in flux and a resolution of better than 40 μm for a field-of-view of about 2.5 cm. Such a thermal neutron microscope can be useful for other applications of neutron radiography, where thermal neutrons are advantageous.

Tropical sea snail shells: Possible exotic sources for ceramic biomaterial synthesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oktar, F. N.; Kiyici, I. A.; Gökçe, H.; Aǧaogulları, D.; Kayali, E. S.

2013-12-01

In this study, chemical and structural properties of sea snail shell based bioceramic materials (i.e. hydroxyapatite, whitlockite and other phases) are produced by using mechano-chemical (ultrasonic) conversion method. For this purpose, differential thermal and gravimetric analysis (DTA/TG), X-ray diffraction, infra-red (IR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) studies are performed.

Toward single mode, atomic size electron vortex beams.

PubMed

Krivanek, Ondrej L; Rusz, Jan; Idrobo, Juan-Carlos; Lovejoy, Tracy J; Dellby, Niklas

2014-06-01

We propose a practical method of producing a single mode electron vortex beam suitable for use in a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM). The method involves using a holographic "fork" aperture to produce a row of beams of different orbital angular momenta, as is now well established, magnifying the row so that neighboring beams are separated by about 1 µm, selecting the desired beam with a narrow slit, and demagnifying the selected beam down to 1-2 Å in size. We show that the method can be implemented by adding two condenser lenses plus a selection slit to a straight-column cold-field emission STEM. It can also be carried out in an existing instrument, the monochromated Nion high-energy-resolution monochromated electron energy-loss spectroscopy-STEM, by using its monochromator in a novel way. We estimate that atom-sized vortex beams with ≥ 20 pA of current should be attainable at 100-200 keV in either instrument.

Facile synthesis of Co3O4 hexagonal plates by flux method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Ji-Long; Meng, Qing-Fen; Gao, Sheng-Li

2018-01-01

Using a novel flux method, a hexagonal plate of Co3O4 was directly synthesized. In this method, CoCl2·6H2O, NaOH, and the cosolvent H3BO3 were heated to 750 °C for 2 h in a corundum crucible. The products were characterized with X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), selected area electron diffraction (SAED), and high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM). Furthermore, XRD studies indicated that the product consisted of a cubic phase of Co3O4, and the phase existed in a completely crystalline form. Then, SEM results indicated that these hexagonal plates tiered up and they had diameters in the range of 2-10 μm. According to the results of SAED and HRTEM analyses, the interlayer spacing was about 0.24 nm, which corresponds to the interlayer distance of (3 1 1) crystal plane of cubic Co3O4.

Rapid and precise scanning helium ion microscope milling of solid-state nanopores for biomolecule detection.

PubMed

Yang, Jijin; Ferranti, David C; Stern, Lewis A; Sanford, Colin A; Huang, Jason; Ren, Zheng; Qin, Lu-Chang; Hall, Adam R

2011-07-15

We report the formation of solid-state nanopores using a scanning helium ion microscope. The fabrication process offers the advantage of high sample throughput along with fine control over nanopore dimensions, producing single pores with diameters below 4 nm. Electronic noise associated with ion transport through the resultant pores is found to be comparable with levels measured on devices made with the established technique of transmission electron microscope milling. We demonstrate the utility of our nanopores for biomolecular analysis by measuring the passage of double-strand DNA.

Intrinsic instability of aberration-corrected electron microscopes.

PubMed

Schramm, S M; van der Molen, S J; Tromp, R M

2012-10-19

Aberration-corrected microscopes with subatomic resolution will impact broad areas of science and technology. However, the experimentally observed lifetime of the corrected state is just a few minutes. Here we show that the corrected state is intrinsically unstable; the higher its quality, the more unstable it is. Analyzing the contrast transfer function near optimum correction, we define an "instability budget" which allows a rational trade-off between resolution and stability. Unless control systems are developed to overcome these challenges, intrinsic instability poses a fundamental limit to the resolution practically achievable in the electron microscope.

In situ nanomechanical testing of twinned metals in a transmission electron microscope

DOE PAGES

Li, Nan; Wang, Jiangwei; Mao, Scott; ...

2016-04-01

This paper focuses on in situ transmission electron microscope (TEM) characterization to explore twins in face-centered-cubic and body-centered-cubic monolithic metals, and their impact on the overall mechanical performance. Taking advantage of simultaneous nanomechanical deformation and nanoscale imaging using versatile in situ TEM tools, direct correlation of these unique microscopic defects with macroscopic mechanical performance becomes possible. This article summarizes recent evidence to support the mechanisms related to strengthening and plasticity in metals, including nanotwinned Cu, Ni, Al, Au, and others in bulk, thin film, and nanowire forms.

In situ nanomechanical testing of twinned metals in a transmission electron microscope

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Li, Nan; Wang, Jiangwei; Mao, Scott

This paper focuses on in situ transmission electron microscope (TEM) characterization to explore twins in face-centered-cubic and body-centered-cubic monolithic metals, and their impact on the overall mechanical performance. Taking advantage of simultaneous nanomechanical deformation and nanoscale imaging using versatile in situ TEM tools, direct correlation of these unique microscopic defects with macroscopic mechanical performance becomes possible. This article summarizes recent evidence to support the mechanisms related to strengthening and plasticity in metals, including nanotwinned Cu, Ni, Al, Au, and others in bulk, thin film, and nanowire forms.

Thermophysical ESEM and TEM Characterization of Carbon Fibers CTE, Spectroscopy and Roughness Studies at High Temperatures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ochoa, Ozden O.

2004-01-01

Accurate determination of the transverse properties of carbon fibers is important for assessment and prediction of local material as well as global structural response of composite components. However the measurements are extremely difficult due to the very small diameters of the fibers (few microns only) and must be conducted within a microscope. In this work, environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) are used to determine the transverse coefficient of thermal expansion of different carbon fibers as a function of temperature.

Characterization of non-conductive materials using field emission scanning electron microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Cong; Gao, Ran; Shang, Huayan; Peng, Tingting

2016-01-01

With the development of science and technology, field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) plays an important role in nano-material measurements because of its advantages of high magnification, high resolution and easy operation. A high-quality secondary electron image is a significant prerequisite for accurate and precise length measurements. In order to obtain high-quality secondary electron images, the conventional treatment method for non-conductive materials is coating conductive films with gold, carbon or platinum to reduce charging effects, but this method will cover real micro structures of materials, change the sample composition properties and meanwhile introduce a relatively big error to nano-scale microstructure measurements. This paper discusses how to reduce or eliminate the impact of charging effects on image quality to the greatest extent by changing working conditions, such as voltage, stage bias, scanning mode and so on without treatment of coating, to obtain real and high-quality microstructure information of materials.

Dose-rate-dependent damage of cerium dioxide in the scanning transmission electron microscope.

PubMed

Johnston-Peck, Aaron C; DuChene, Joseph S; Roberts, Alan D; Wei, Wei David; Herzing, Andrew A

2016-11-01

Beam damage caused by energetic electrons in the transmission electron microscope is a fundamental constraint limiting the collection of artifact-free information. Through understanding the influence of the electron beam, experimental routines may be adjusted to improve the data collection process. Investigations of CeO 2 indicate that there is not a critical dose required for the accumulation of electron beam damage. Instead, measurements using annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy and electron energy loss spectroscopy demonstrate that the onset of measurable damage occurs when a critical dose rate is exceeded. The mechanism behind this phenomenon is that oxygen vacancies created by exposure to a 300keV electron beam are actively annihilated as the sample re-oxidizes in the microscope environment. As a result, only when the rate of vacancy creation exceeds the recovery rate will beam damage begin to accumulate. This observation suggests that dose-intensive experiments can be accomplished without disrupting the native structure of the sample when executed using dose rates below the appropriate threshold. Furthermore, the presence of an encapsulating carbonaceous layer inhibits processes that cause beam damage, markedly increasing the dose rate threshold for the accumulation of damage. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Dose-rate-dependent damage of cerium dioxide in the scanning transmission electron microscope

PubMed Central

Johnston-Peck, Aaron C.; DuChene, Joseph S.; Roberts, Alan D.; Wei, Wei David; Herzing, Andrew A.

2016-01-01

Beam damage caused by energetic electrons in the transmission electron microscope is a fundamental constraint limiting the collection of artifact-free information. Through understanding the influence of the electron beam, experimental routines may be adjusted to improve the data collection process. Investigations of CeO2 indicate that there is not a critical dose required for the accumulation of electron beam damage. Instead, measurements using annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy and electron energy loss spectroscopy demonstrate that the onset of measurable damage occurs when a critical dose rate is exceeded. The mechanism behind this phenomenon is that oxygen vacancies created by exposure to a 300 keV electron beam are actively annihilated as the sample re-oxidizes in the microscope environment. As a result, only when the rate of vacancy creation exceeds the recovery rate will beam damage begin to accumulate. This observation suggests that dose-intensive experiments can be accomplished without disrupting the native structure of the sample when executed using dose rates below the appropriate threshold. Furthermore, the presence of an encapsulating carbonaceous layer inhibits processes that cause beam damage, markedly increasing the dose rate threshold for the accumulation of damage. PMID:27469265

Electron-beam induced current characterization of back-surface field solar cells using a chopped scanning electron microscope beam

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Luke, K. L.; Cheng, L.-J.

1984-01-01

A chopped electron beam induced current (EBIC) technique for the chacterization of back-surface field (BSF) solar cells is presented. It is shown that the effective recombination velocity of the low-high junction forming the back-surface field of BSF cells, in addition to the diffusion length and the surface recombination velocity of the surface perpendicular to both the p-n and low-high junctions, can be determined from the data provided by a single EBIC scan. The method for doing so is described and illustrated. Certain experimental considerations taken to enhance the quality of the EBIC data are also discussed.

Qualitative and quantitative interpretation of SEM image using digital image processing.

PubMed

Saladra, Dawid; Kopernik, Magdalena

2016-10-01

The aim of the this study is improvement of qualitative and quantitative analysis of scanning electron microscope micrographs by development of computer program, which enables automatic crack analysis of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs. Micromechanical tests of pneumatic ventricular assist devices result in a large number of micrographs. Therefore, the analysis must be automatic. Tests for athrombogenic titanium nitride/gold coatings deposited on polymeric substrates (Bionate II) are performed. These tests include microshear, microtension and fatigue analysis. Anisotropic surface defects observed in the SEM micrographs require support for qualitative and quantitative interpretation. Improvement of qualitative analysis of scanning electron microscope images was achieved by a set of computational tools that includes binarization, simplified expanding, expanding, simple image statistic thresholding, the filters Laplacian 1, and Laplacian 2, Otsu and reverse binarization. Several modifications of the known image processing techniques and combinations of the selected image processing techniques were applied. The introduced quantitative analysis of digital scanning electron microscope images enables computation of stereological parameters such as area, crack angle, crack length, and total crack length per unit area. This study also compares the functionality of the developed computer program of digital image processing with existing applications. The described pre- and postprocessing may be helpful in scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy surface investigations. © 2016 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2016 Royal Microscopical Society.

Attempt of correlative observation of morphological synaptic connectivity by combining confocal laser-scanning microscope and FIB-SEM for immunohistochemical staining technique.

PubMed

Sonomura, Takahiro; Furuta, Takahiro; Nakatani, Ikuko; Yamamoto, Yo; Honma, Satoru; Kaneko, Takeshi

2014-11-01

Ten years have passed since a serial block-face scanning electron microscopy (SBF-SEM) method was developed [1]. In this innovative method, samples were automatically sectioned with an ultramicrotome placed inside a scanning electron microscope column, and the block surfaces were imaged one after another by SEM to capture back-scattered electrons. The contrast-inverted images obtained by the SBF-SEM were very similar to those acquired using conventional TEM. SFB-SEM has made easy to acquire image stacks of the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) in the mesoscale, which is taken with the confocal laser-scanning microcopy(CF-LSM).Furthermore, serial-section SEM has been combined with the focused ion beam (FIB) milling method [2]. FIB-incorporated SEM (FIB-SEM) has enabled the acquisition of three-dimensional images with a higher z-axis resolution com- pared to ultramicrotome-equipped SEM.We tried immunocytochemistry for FIB-SEM and correlated this immunoreactivity with that in CF-LSM. Dendrites of neurons in the rat neostriatum were visualized using a recombinant viral vector. Moreover, the thalamostriatal afferent terminals were immunolabeled with Cy5 fluorescence for vesicular glutamate transporter 2 (VGluT2). After detection of the sites of terminals apposed to the dendrites by using CF-LSM, GFP and VGluT2 immunoreactivities were further developed for EM by using immunogold/silver enhancement and immunoperoxidase/diaminobenzidine (DAB) methods, respectively.We showed that conventional immuno-cytochemical staining for TEM was applicable to FIB-SEM. Furthermore, several synaptic contacts, which were thought to exist on the basis of CF-LSM findings, were confirmed with FIB-SEM, revealing the usefulness of the combined method of CF-LSM and FIB-SEM. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Japanese Society of Microscopy. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Determination of scattering structures from spatial coherence measurements.

PubMed

Zarubin, A M

1996-03-01

A new method of structure determination and microscopic imaging with short-wavelength radiations (charged particles, X-rays, neutrons), based on measurements of the modulus and the phase of the degree of spatial coherence of the scattered radiation, is developed. The underlying principle of the method--transfer of structural information about the scattering potential via spatial coherence of the secondary (scattering) source of radiation formed by this potential--is expressed by the generalization of the van Cittert-Zernike theorem to wave and particle scattering [A.M. Zarubin, Opt. Commun. 100 (1993) 491; Opt. Commun. 102 (1993) 543]. Shearing interferometric techniques are proposed for implementing the above measurements; the limits of spatial resolution attainable by reconstruction of the absolute square of a 3D scattering potential and its 2D projections from the measurements are analyzed. It is shown theoretically that 3D imaging with atomic resolution can be realized in a "synthetic aperture" electron or ion microscope and that a 3D resolution of about 6 nm can be obtained with a "synthetic aperture" X-ray microscope. A proof-of-principle optical experiment is presented.

A Closed-Loop Proportional-Integral (PI) Control Software for Fully Mechanically Controlled Automated Electron Microscopic Tomography

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

REN, GANG; LIU, JINXIN; LI, HONGCHANG

A closed-loop proportional-integral (PI) control software is provided for fully mechanically controlled automated electron microscopic tomography. The software is developed based on Gatan DigitalMicrograph, and is compatible with Zeiss LIBRA 120 transmission electron microscope. However, it can be expanded to other TEM instrument with modification. The software consists of a graphical user interface, a digital PI controller, an image analyzing unit, and other drive units (i.e.: image acquire unit and goniometer drive unit). During a tomography data collection process, the image analyzing unit analyzes both the accumulated shift and defocus value of the latest acquired image, and provides the resultsmore » to the digital PI controller. The digital PI control compares the results with the preset values and determines the optimum adjustments of the goniometer. The goniometer drive unit adjusts the spatial position of the specimen according to the instructions given by the digital PI controller for the next tilt angle and image acquisition. The goniometer drive unit achieves high precision positioning by using a backlash elimination method. The major benefits of the software are: 1) the goniometer drive unit keeps pre-aligned/optimized beam conditions unchanged and achieves position tracking solely through mechanical control; 2) the image analyzing unit relies on only historical data and therefore does not require additional images/exposures; 3) the PI controller enables the system to dynamically track the imaging target with extremely low system error.« less

A comparative evaluation of smear layer removal by using edta, etidronic acid, and maleic acid as root canal irrigants: An in vitro scanning electron microscopic study

PubMed Central

Kuruvilla, Aby; Jaganath, Bharath Makonahalli; Krishnegowda, Sahadev Chickmagaravalli; Ramachandra, Praveen Kumar Makonahalli; Johns, Dexton Antony; Abraham, Aby

2015-01-01

Aim: The purpose of this study is to evaluate and compare the efficacy of 17% EDTA, 18% etidronic acid, and 7% maleic acid in smear layer removal using scanning electron microscopic image analysis. Materials and Methods: Thirty, freshly extracted mandibular premolars were used. The teeth were decoronated to obtain working length of 17mm and instrumentation up to 40 size (K file) with 2.5% NaOCl irrigation between each file. The samples were divided into Groups I (17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)), II (18% etidronic acid), and III (7% maleic acid) containing 10 samples each. Longitudinal sectioning of the samples was done. Then the samples were observed under scanning electron microscope (SEM) at apical, middle, and coronal levels. The images were scored according to the criteria: 1. No smear layer, 2. moderate smear layer, and 3 heavy smear layer. Statistical Analysis: Data was analyzed statistically using Kruskal–Wallis analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Mann-Whitney U test for individual comparisons. The level for significance was set at 0.05. Results: The present study showed that all the three experimental irrigants removed the smear layer from different tooth levels (coronal, middle, and apical). Final irrigation with 7% maleic acid is more efficient than 17% EDTA and 18% etidronic acid in the removal of smear layer from the apical third of root canal. PMID:26069414

[A study of different polishing techniques for amalgams and glass-cermet cement by scanning electron microscope (SEM)].

PubMed

Kakaboura, A; Vougiouklakis, G; Argiri, G

1989-01-01

Finishing and polishing an amalgam restoration, is considered as an important and necessary step of the restorative procedure. Various polishing techniques have been recommended to success a smooth amalgam surface. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of three different polishing treatments on the marginal integrity and surface smoothness of restorations made of three commercially available amalgams and a glass-cermet cement. The materials used were the amalgams, Amalcap (Vivadent), Dispersalloy (Johnson and Johnson), Duralloy (Degussa) and the glass-cermet Katac-Silver (ESPE). The occlusal surfaces of the restorations were polished by the methods: I) round bur, No4-rubber cup-zinc oxide paste in a small brush, II) round bur No 4-bur-brown, green and super green (Shofu) polishing cups and points successively and III) amalgam polishing bur of 12-blades-smooth amalgam polishing bur. Photographs from unpolished and polished surfaces of the restorations, were taken with scanning electron microscope, to evaluate the polishing techniques. An improvement of marginal integrity and surface smoothness of all amalgam restorations was observed after the specimens had been polished with the three techniques. Method II, included Shofu polishers, proved the best results in comparison to the methods I and III. Polishing of glass-cermet cement was impossible with the examined techniques.

Synthesis of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles by a novel ultrasonic assisted with mixed hollow sphere template method.

PubMed

Gopi, D; Indira, J; Kavitha, L; Sekar, M; Mudali, U Kamachi

2012-07-01

Hydroxyapatite (HAP) is the main inorganic component of bone material and is widely used in various biomedical applications due to its excellent bioactivity and biocompatibility. In this paper, we have reported the synthesis of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles by a novel ultrasonic assisted mixed template directed method. In this method glycine-acrylic acid (GLY-AA) hollow spheres were used as an organic template which could be prepared by mixing of glycine with acrylic acid. The as-synthesized HAP nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and tunnelling electron microscope (TEM) to investigate the nature of bonding, crystallinity, size and shape. The thermal stability of as-synthesized nanoparticles was also investigated by the thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA). The effect of ultrasonic irradiation time on the crystallinity and size of the HAP nanoparticles in presence of glycine-acrylic acid hollow spheres template were investigated. From the inspection of the above results it is confirmed that the crystallinity and size of the HAP nanoparticles decrease with increasing ultrasonic irradiation time. Hence the proposed synthesis strategy provides a facile pathway to obtain nano sized HAP with high quality, suitable size and morphology. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effects of Thickness and Amount of Carbon Nanofiber Coated Carbon Fiber on Improving the Mechanical Properties of Nanocomposites

PubMed Central

Ghaemi, Ferial; Ahmadian, Ali; Yunus, Robiah; Ismail, Fudziah; Rahmanian, Saeed

2016-01-01

In the current study, carbon nanofibers (CNFs) were grown on a carbon fiber (CF) surface by using the chemical vapor deposition method (CVD) and the influences of some parameters of the CVD method on improving the mechanical properties of a polypropylene (PP) composite were investigated. To obtain an optimum surface area, thickness, and yield of the CNFs, the parameters of the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method, such as catalyst concentration, reaction temperature, reaction time, and hydrocarbon flow rate, were optimized. It was observed that the optimal surface area, thickness, and yield of the CNFs caused more adhesion of the fibers with the PP matrix, which enhanced the composite properties. Besides this, the effectiveness of reinforcement of fillers was fitted with a mathematical model obtaining good agreement between the experimental result and the theoretical prediction. By applying scanning electronic microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and Raman spectroscopy, the surface morphology and structural information of the resultant CF-CNF were analyzed. Additionally, SEM images and a mechanical test of the composite with a proper layer of CNFs on the CF revealed not only a compactness effect but also the thickness and surface area roles of the CNF layers in improving the mechanical properties of the composites. PMID:28344263

Physically motivated global alignment method for electron tomography

DOE PAGES

Sanders, Toby; Prange, Micah; Akatay, Cem; ...

2015-04-08

Electron tomography is widely used for nanoscale determination of 3-D structures in many areas of science. Determining the 3-D structure of a sample from electron tomography involves three major steps: acquisition of sequence of 2-D projection images of the sample with the electron microscope, alignment of the images to a common coordinate system, and 3-D reconstruction and segmentation of the sample from the aligned image data. The resolution of the 3-D reconstruction is directly influenced by the accuracy of the alignment, and therefore, it is crucial to have a robust and dependable alignment method. In this paper, we develop amore » new alignment method which avoids the use of markers and instead traces the computed paths of many identifiable ‘local’ center-of-mass points as the sample is rotated. Compared with traditional correlation schemes, the alignment method presented here is resistant to cumulative error observed from correlation techniques, has very rigorous mathematical justification, and is very robust since many points and paths are used, all of which inevitably improves the quality of the reconstruction and confidence in the scientific results.« less

In Situ Microstructural Control and Mechanical Testing Inside the Transmission Electron Microscope at Elevated Temperatures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Baoming; Haque, M. A.

2015-08-01

With atomic-scale imaging and analytical capabilities such as electron diffraction and energy-loss spectroscopy, the transmission electron microscope has allowed access to the internal microstructure of materials like no other microscopy. It has been mostly a passive or post-mortem analysis tool, but that trend is changing with in situ straining, heating and electrical biasing. In this study, we design and demonstrate a multi-functional microchip that integrates actuators, sensors, heaters and electrodes with freestanding electron transparent specimens. In addition to mechanical testing at elevated temperatures, the chip can actively control microstructures (grain growth and phase change) of the specimen material. Using nano-crystalline aluminum, nickel and zirconium as specimen materials, we demonstrate these novel capabilities inside the microscope. Our approach of active microstructural control and quantitative testing with real-time visualization can influence mechanistic modeling by providing direct and accurate evidence of the fundamental mechanisms behind materials behavior.

Sol-gel-derived double-layered nanocrystal memory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ko, Fu-Hsiang; You, Hsin-Chiang; Lei, Tan-Fu

2006-12-01

The authors have used the sol-gel spin-coating method to fabricate a coexisting hafnium silicate and zirconium silicate double-layered nanocrystal (NC) memories. From transmission electron microscopic and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopic analyses, the authors determined that the hafnium silicate and zirconium silicate NCs formed after annealing at 900°C for 1min. When using channel hot electron injection for charging and band-to-band tunneling-induced hot hole injection for discharging, the NC memories exhibited superior Vth shifting because of the higher probability for trapping the charge carrier.

Ecology and thermal inactivation of microbes in and on interplanetary space vehicle components. [examined with a scanning electron microscope

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Campbell, J. E.

1974-01-01

The uses of scanning electron microscopy in assessing changes that occur in spores exposed to wet and dry heat cycles at elevated temperatures were examined. Several species of Bacillus and other nonspore-forming species of organisms were used for the experiment. Surface morphology of viable and nonviable organisms was clearly detectable by this method, making it a potentially useful technique for investigating microbial inactivation on space vehicle surfaces and components. Micrographs of the spores and bacterial cells are provided.

Effect of preparation conditions on the nanostructure of hydroxyapatite and brushite phases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mansour, S. F.; El-dek, S. I.; Ahmed, M. A.; Abd-Elwahab, S. M.; Ahmed, M. K.

2016-10-01

Hydroxyapatite (HAP) and dicalcium phosphate dihydrate (brushite) nanoparticles were prepared by co-precipitation method. The obtained products were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier transformation infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR) and thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) were used to investigate the morphology of the powdered samples as well as their microstructure, respectively. Brushite samples were obtained in a spherical shape, while hydroxyapatite was formed in a needle and rice shape depending on the pH value.

An investigation into vascular prosthesis modified with an electron beam.

PubMed

Lowkis, B; Szymonowicz, M; Rutkowski, J

1997-01-01

The present paper shows the results of an investigation into the effect of implanted electric charge on blood platelet adhesion to woven surfaces of "Dallon" polyester vascular prosthesis. The electrets were formed using the electron beam method. The assessment of the electret effect on blood platelet adhesion was performed on the basis of microscopic studies. It was shown that an implanted negative electric charge remarkably suppresses thrombocyte adhesion to the prosthesis surface. The electret effect was found to play a significant role in the process of preparing nonthrombogenic surfaces.

Microscopic investigation of cavitation erosion damage in metals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hackworh, J. V.; Adler, W. F.

1974-01-01

The results of research to identify the cavitation erosion damage mechanisms at the microscopic level for three metals (aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium) representing a range of properties and microstructure are presented. The metals were exposed to cavitation generated in distilled water by a 20-kHz ultrasonic facility operating at a vibration amplitude of 2 mils. Representative properties of the metals and experimental details are summarized. Replicas of the eroded surfaces of the specimens obtained periodically during exposure were examined with a transmission electron microscope to follow progression of the erosion damage and identify dominant erosion mechanisms as a function of exposure time. Eroded surfaces of selected specimens were also examined with a scanning electron microscope to assist in the interpretation.

Method for identifying biochemical and chemical reactions and micromechanical processes using nanomechanical and electronic signal identification

DOEpatents

Holzrichter, J.F.; Siekhaus, W.J.

1997-04-15

A scanning probe microscope, such as an atomic force microscope (AFM) or a scanning tunneling microscope (STM), is operated in a stationary mode on a site where an activity of interest occurs to measure and identify characteristic time-varying micromotions caused by biological, chemical, mechanical, electrical, optical, or physical processes. The tip and cantilever assembly of an AFM is used as a micromechanical detector of characteristic micromotions transmitted either directly by a site of interest or indirectly through the surrounding medium. Alternatively, the exponential dependence of the tunneling current on the size of the gap in the STM is used to detect micromechanical movement. The stationary mode of operation can be used to observe dynamic biological processes in real time and in a natural environment, such as polymerase processing of DNA for determining the sequence of a DNA molecule. 6 figs.

Microscopic and histochemical manifestations of hyaline cartilage dynamics.

PubMed

Malinin, G I; Malinin, T I

1999-01-01

Structure and function of hyaline cartilages has been the focus of many correlative studies for over a hundred years. Much of what is known regarding dynamics and function of cartilage constituents has been derived or inferred from biochemical and electron microscopic investigations. Here we show that in conjunction with ultrastructural, and high-magnification transmission light and polarization microscopy, the well-developed histochemical methods are indispensable for the analysis of cartilage dynamics. Microscopically demonstrable aspects of cartilage dynamics include, but are not limited to, formation of the intracellular liquid crystals, phase transitions of the extracellular matrix and tubular connections between chondrocytes. The role of the interchondrocytic liquid crystals is considered in terms of the tensegrity hypothesis and non-apoptotic cell death. Phase transitions of the extracellular matrix are discussed in terms of self-alignment of chondrons, matrix guidance pathways and cartilage growth in the absence of mitosis. The possible role of nonenzymatic glycation reactions in cartilage dynamics is also reviewed.

Method for identifying biochemical and chemical reactions and micromechanical processes using nanomechanical and electronic signal identification

DOEpatents

Holzrichter, John F.; Siekhaus, Wigbert J.

1997-01-01

A scanning probe microscope, such as an atomic force microscope (AFM) or a scanning tunneling microscope (STM), is operated in a stationary mode on a site where an activity of interest occurs to measure and identify characteristic time-varying micromotions caused by biological, chemical, mechanical, electrical, optical, or physical processes. The tip and cantilever assembly of an AFM is used as a micromechanical detector of characteristic micromotions transmitted either directly by a site of interest or indirectly through the surrounding medium. Alternatively, the exponential dependence of the tunneling current on the size of the gap in the STM is used to detect micromechanical movement. The stationary mode of operation can be used to observe dynamic biological processes in real time and in a natural environment, such as polymerase processing of DNA for determining the sequence of a DNA molecule.

[Cytocompatibility of nanophase hydroxyapatite ceramics].

PubMed

Wen, Bo; Chen, Zhi-qing; Jiang, Yin-shan; Yang, Zheng-wen; Xu, Yong-zhong

2004-12-01

To evaluate the cytocompatibility of nanophase hydroxyapatite ceramics in vitro. Hydroxyapatite (HA) was prepared via wet method. The grain size of the hydroxyapatite in the study was determined by scanning electron microscope and atomic force microscope with image analysis software. Primary osteoblast culture was established from rat calvaria. Cell adherence and proliferation on nanophase hydroxyapatite ceramics and conventional hydroxyapatite ceramics were examined at 1, 3, 5, 7 days. Morphology of the cells was observed by microscope. The average grain size of the nanophase and conventional HA was 55 nm and 780 nm, respectively. Throughout 7 days period, osteoblast proliferation on the HA was similar to that on tissue culture borosilicate glass controls, osteoblasts could attach, spread and proliferate on HA. However, compared to conventional ceramics, osteoblast proliferation on nanophase HA was significantly better after 1, 3, 5 and 7 days. Cytocompatibility of nanophase HA was significantly better than conventional ceramics.

Electron microscope phase enhancement

DOEpatents

Jin, Jian; Glaeser, Robert M.

2010-06-15

A microfabricated electron phase shift element is used for modifying the phase characteristics of an electron beam passing though its center aperture, while not affecting the more divergent portion of an incident beam to selectively provide a ninety-degree phase shift to the unscattered beam in the back focal plan of the objective lens, in order to realize Zernike-type, in-focus phase contrast in an electron microscope. One application of the element is to increase the contrast of an electron microscope for viewing weakly scattering samples while in focus. Typical weakly scattering samples include biological samples such as macromolecules, or perhaps cells. Preliminary experimental images demonstrate that these devices do apply a ninety degree phase shift as expected. Electrostatic calculations have been used to determine that fringing fields in the region of the scattered electron beams will cause a negligible phase shift as long as the ratio of electrode length to the transverse feature-size aperture is about 5:1. Calculations are underway to determine the feasibility of aspect smaller aspect ratios of about 3:1 and about 2:1.

Fast imaging with inelastically scattered electrons by off-axis chromatic confocal electron microscopy.

PubMed

Zheng, Changlin; Zhu, Ye; Lazar, Sorin; Etheridge, Joanne

2014-04-25

We introduce off-axis chromatic scanning confocal electron microscopy, a technique for fast mapping of inelastically scattered electrons in a scanning transmission electron microscope without a spectrometer. The off-axis confocal mode enables the inelastically scattered electrons to be chromatically dispersed both parallel and perpendicular to the optic axis. This enables electrons with different energy losses to be separated and detected in the image plane, enabling efficient energy filtering in a confocal mode with an integrating detector. We describe the experimental configuration and demonstrate the method with nanoscale core-loss chemical mapping of silver (M4,5) in an aluminium-silver alloy and atomic scale imaging of the low intensity core-loss La (M4,5@840  eV) signal in LaB6. Scan rates up to 2 orders of magnitude faster than conventional methods were used, enabling a corresponding reduction in radiation dose and increase in the field of view. If coupled with the enhanced depth and lateral resolution of the incoherent confocal configuration, this offers an approach for nanoscale three-dimensional chemical mapping.

Electron beam patterning for writing of positively charged gold colloidal nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zafri, Hadar; Azougi, Jonathan; Girshevitz, Olga; Zalevsky, Zeev; Zitoun, David

2018-02-01

Synthesis at the nanoscale has progressed at a very fast pace during the last decades. The main challenge today lies in precise localization to achieve efficient nanofabrication of devices. In the present work, we report on a novel method for the patterning of gold metallic nanoparticles into nanostructures on a silicon-on-insulator (SOI) wafer. The fabrication makes use of relatively accessible equipment, a scanning electron microscope (SEM), and wet chemical synthesis. The electron beam implants electrons into the insulating material, which further anchors the positively charged Au nanoparticles by electrostatic attraction. The novel fabrication method was applied to several substrates useful in microelectronics to add plasmonic particles. The resolution and surface density of the deposition were tuned, respectively, by the electron energy (acceleration voltage) and the dose of electronic irradiation. We easily achieved the smallest written feature of 68 ± 18 nm on SOI, and the technique can be extended to any positively charged nanoparticles, while the resolution is in principle limited by the particle size distribution and the scattering of the electrons in the substrate. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Isolation, electron microscopic imaging, and 3-D visualization of native cardiac thin myofilaments.

PubMed

Spiess, M; Steinmetz, M O; Mandinova, A; Wolpensinger, B; Aebi, U; Atar, D

1999-06-15

An increasing number of cardiac diseases are currently pinpointed to reside at the level of the thin myofilaments (e.g., cardiomyopathies, reperfusion injury). Hence the aim of our study was to develop a new method for the isolation of mammalian thin myofilaments suitable for subsequent high-resolution electron microscopic imaging. Native cardiac thin myofilaments were extracted from glycerinated porcine myocardial tissue in the presence of protease inhibitors. Separation of thick and thin myofilaments was achieved by addition of ATP and several centrifugation steps. Negative staining and subsequent conventional and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) of thin myofilaments permitted visualization of molecular details; unlike conventional preparations of thin myofilaments, our method reveals the F-actin moiety and allows direct recognition of thin myofilament-associated porcine cardiac troponin complexes. They appear as "bulges" at regular intervals of approximately 36 nm along the actin filaments. Protein analysis using SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed that only approximately 20% troponin I was lost during the isolation procedure. In a further step, 3-D helical reconstructions were calculated using STEM dark-field images. These 3-D reconstructions will allow further characterization of molecular details, and they will be useful for directly visualizing molecular alterations related to diseased cardiac thin myofilaments (e.g., reperfusion injury, alterations of Ca2+-mediated tropomyosin switch). Copyright 1999 Academic Press.

Fabrication of ordered bulk heterojunction organic photovoltaic cells using nanopatterning and electrohydrodynamic spray deposition methods.

PubMed

Park, Sung-Eun; Kim, Sehwan; Kim, Kangmin; Joe, Hang-Eun; Jung, Buyoung; Kim, Eunkyoung; Kim, Woochul; Min, Byung-Kwon; Hwang, Jungho

2012-12-21

Organic photovoltaic cells with an ordered heterojunction (OHJ) active layer are expected to show increased performance. In the study described here, OHJ cells were fabricated using a combination of nanoimprinting and electrohydrodynamic (EHD) spray deposition methods. After an electron donor material was nanoimprinted with a PDMS stamp (valley width: 230 nm, period: 590 nm) duplicated from a Si nanomold, an electron acceptor material was deposited onto the nanoimprinted donor layer using an EHD spray deposition method. The donor-acceptor interface layer was observed by obtaining cross-sectional images with a focused ion beam (FIB) microscope. The photocurrent generation performance of the OHJ cells was evaluated with the current density-voltage curve under air mass (AM) 1.5 conditions. It was found that the surface morphology of the electron acceptor layer affected the current and voltage outputs of the photovoltaic cells. When an electron acceptor layer with a smooth thin (250 nm above the valley of the electron donor layer) surface morphology was obtained, power conversion efficiency was as high as 0.55%. The electrohydrodynamic spray deposition method used to produce OHJ photovoltaic cells provides a means for the adoption of large area, high throughput processes.

Ultra-thin resin embedding method for scanning electron microscopy of individual cells on high and low aspect ratio 3D nanostructures.

PubMed

Belu, A; Schnitker, J; Bertazzo, S; Neumann, E; Mayer, D; Offenhäusser, A; Santoro, F

2016-07-01

The preparation of biological cells for either scanning or transmission electron microscopy requires a complex process of fixation, dehydration and drying. Critical point drying is commonly used for samples investigated with a scanning electron beam, whereas resin-infiltration is typically used for transmission electron microscopy. Critical point drying may cause cracks at the cellular surface and a sponge-like morphology of nondistinguishable intracellular compartments. Resin-infiltrated biological samples result in a solid block of resin, which can be further processed by mechanical sectioning, however that does not allow a top view examination of small cell-cell and cell-surface contacts. Here, we propose a method for removing resin excess on biological samples before effective polymerization. In this way the cells result to be embedded in an ultra-thin layer of epoxy resin. This novel method highlights in contrast to standard methods the imaging of individual cells not only on nanostructured planar surfaces but also on topologically challenging substrates with high aspect ratio three-dimensional features by scanning electron microscopy. © 2016 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2016 Royal Microscopical Society.

Correlative scanning-transmission electron microscopy reveals that a chimeric flavivirus is released as individual particles in secretory vesicles.

PubMed

Burlaud-Gaillard, Julien; Sellin, Caroline; Georgeault, Sonia; Uzbekov, Rustem; Lebos, Claude; Guillaume, Jean-Marc; Roingeard, Philippe

2014-01-01

The intracellular morphogenesis of flaviviruses has been well described, but flavivirus release from the host cell remains poorly documented. We took advantage of the optimized production of an attenuated chimeric yellow fever/dengue virus for vaccine purposes to study this phenomenon by microscopic approaches. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed the release of numerous viral particles at the cell surface through a short-lived process. For transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies of the intracellular ultrastructure of the small number of cells releasing viral particles at a given time, we developed a new correlative microscopy method: CSEMTEM (for correlative scanning electron microscopy - transmission electron microscopy). CSEMTEM analysis suggested that chimeric flavivirus particles were released as individual particles, in small exocytosis vesicles, via a regulated secretory pathway. Our morphological findings provide new insight into interactions between flaviviruses and cells and demonstrate that CSEMTEM is a useful new method, complementary to SEM observations of biological events by intracellular TEM investigations.

Correlative Scanning-Transmission Electron Microscopy Reveals that a Chimeric Flavivirus Is Released as Individual Particles in Secretory Vesicles

PubMed Central

Burlaud-Gaillard, Julien; Sellin, Caroline; Georgeault, Sonia; Uzbekov, Rustem; Lebos, Claude; Guillaume, Jean-Marc; Roingeard, Philippe

2014-01-01

The intracellular morphogenesis of flaviviruses has been well described, but flavivirus release from the host cell remains poorly documented. We took advantage of the optimized production of an attenuated chimeric yellow fever/dengue virus for vaccine purposes to study this phenomenon by microscopic approaches. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed the release of numerous viral particles at the cell surface through a short-lived process. For transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies of the intracellular ultrastructure of the small number of cells releasing viral particles at a given time, we developed a new correlative microscopy method: CSEMTEM (for correlative scanning electron microscopy - transmission electron microscopy). CSEMTEM analysis suggested that chimeric flavivirus particles were released as individual particles, in small exocytosis vesicles, via a regulated secretory pathway. Our morphological findings provide new insight into interactions between flaviviruses and cells and demonstrate that CSEMTEM is a useful new method, complementary to SEM observations of biological events by intracellular TEM investigations. PMID:24681578

Mars Life? - Microscopic Structures

NASA Image and Video Library

1996-08-09

In the center of this electron microscope image of a small chip from a meteorite are several tiny structures that are possible microscopic fossils of primitive, bacteria-like organisms that may have lived on Mars more than 3.6 billion years ago. http://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA00283

Line-width roughness of advanced semiconductor features by using FIB and planar-TEM as reference metrology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takamasu, Kiyoshi; Takahashi, Satoru; Kawada, Hiroki; Ikota, Masami

2018-03-01

LER (Line Edge Roughness) and LWR (Line Width Roughness) of the semiconductor device are an important evaluation scale of the performance of the device. Conventionally, LER and LWR is evaluated from CD-SEM (Critical Dimension Scanning Electron Microscope) images. However, CD-SEM measurement has a problem that high frequency random noise is large, and resolution is not sufficiently high. For random noise of CD-SEM measurement, some techniques are proposed. In these methods, it is necessary to set parameters for model and processing, and it is necessary to verify the correctness of these parameters using reference metrology. We have already proposed a novel reference metrology using FIB (Focused Ion Beam) process and planar-TEM (Transmission Electron Microscope) method. In this study, we applied the proposed method to three new samples such as SAQP (Self-Aligned Quadruple Patterning) FinFET device, EUV (Extreme Ultraviolet Lithography) conventional resist, and EUV new material resist. LWR and PSD (Power Spectral Density) of LWR are calculated from the edge positions on planar-TEM images. We confirmed that LWR and PSD of LWR can be measured with high accuracy and evaluated the difference by the proposed method. Furthermore, from comparisons with PSD of the same sample by CD-SEM, the validity of measurement of PSD and LWR by CD-SEM can be verified.

Solution combustion method for synthesis of nanostructured hydroxyapatite, fluorapatite and chlorapatite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Junjie; Dong, Xiaochen; Bian, Mengmeng; Zhao, Junfeng; Zhang, Yao; Sun, Yue; Chen, JianHua; Wang, XuHong

2014-09-01

Hydroxyapatite (HAP), fluorapatite (Fap) and chlorapatite (Clap) were prepared by solution combustion method with further annealing at 800 °C. The characterization and structural features of the synthesized powders were evaluated by the powder X-ray diffraction (XRD, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. Characterization results from XRD and Rietveld analysis revealed that OH- in the HAP lattice were gradually substituted with the increase of F- and Cl- content and totally substituted at the molar concentration of 0.28 and 0.6, respectively. The results from FI-IR have also confirmed the incorporation of substituted anions in the apatite structure.

Concurrent in situ ion irradiation transmission electron microscope

DOE PAGES

Hattar, K.; Bufford, D. C.; Buller, D. L.

2014-08-29

An in situ ion irradiation transmission electron microscope has been developed and is operational at Sandia National Laboratories. This facility permits high spatial resolution, real time observation of electron transparent samples under ion irradiation, implantation, mechanical loading, corrosive environments, and combinations thereof. This includes the simultaneous implantation of low-energy gas ions (0.8–30 keV) during high-energy heavy ion irradiation (0.8–48 MeV). In addition, initial results in polycrystalline gold foils are provided to demonstrate the range of capabilities.

Confirmation of thalamosubthalamic projections by electron microscopic autoradiography.

PubMed

Sugimoto, T; Hattori, T

1983-05-16

Direct projections from the centre median-parafascicular complex (CM-Pf) to the subthalamic nucleus(STN) were confirmed by electron microscopic autoradiography. [3H]Leucine injections into the rat CM-Pf produced preferential labeling of Gray's type I boutons containing round vesicles in the ipsilateral STN. Further results strongly suggested the existence of some common CM-Pf projections to both the striatum and STN.

Collection and Analysis of Aircraft Emitted Particles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilson, James Charles

1999-01-01

The University of Denver Aerosol Group proposed to adapt an impactor system for the collection of particles emitted by aircraft. The collection substrates were electron microscope grids which were analyzed by Dr. Pat Sheridan using a transmission electron microscope. The impactor was flown in the SNIFF behind aircraft and engine emissions were sampled. This report details the results of that work.

Foucault imaging by using non-dedicated transmission electron microscope

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Taniguchi, Yoshifumi; Matsumoto, Hiroaki; Harada, Ken

2012-08-27

An electron optical system for observing Foucault images was constructed using a conventional transmission electron microscope without any special equipment for Lorentz microscopy. The objective lens was switched off and an electron beam was converged by a condenser optical system to the crossover on the selected area aperture plane. The selected area aperture was used as an objective aperture to select the deflected beam for Foucault mode, and the successive image-forming lenses were controlled for observation of the specimen images. The irradiation area on the specimen was controlled by selecting the appropriate diameter of the condenser aperture.