INSTRUMENTS

Sample Preparation Tools

In addition to the primary electron and ion microscopes, there are other tools available for sample preparation, mounting and manipulation.

Please contact AEMC staff for more information.

image of Klaus Sattler and Asayena Viengmany on optical scopes

Prof. Klaus Sattler and undergraduate student Asayena Viengmany using the optical microscopes to examine graphene spherules.

Ultramicrotome

Image of ultramicrotome Image of ultramicrotome

The lab includes a Leica EM UC7 ultramicrotome, a device that mechanically cuts very thin slices (sections) of samples embedded in special epoxies for preparation for imaging and analysis in the transmission electron microscope (TEM). The ultramicrotome uses diamond knives to generate <100 nm thick sections that are floated onto the meniscus of water in a boat where they can be collected onto a TEM grid for analysis. Contact lab staff to discuss your project and possible use of the ultramicrotome.

Optical microscopes

The lab is equipped with several light microscopes and digital cameras for optical inspection of samples, sample mounting and sample manipulation.

  • Zeiss stereomicroscope with variable zoom
  • Olympus stereomicroscope with variable zoom
  • Nikon compound microscope with 5x–100x objectives with 10x oculars
image of Zeiss stereomicroscope

Zeiss stereomicroscope with variable zoom

image of Olympus stereomicroscope

Olympus stereomicroscope with variable zoom

image of Nikon compound microscope

Nikon compound microscope with 5x–100x objectives with 10x oculars

Plasma cleaner

image of Fischione plasma cleaner

A Fischione Model 1020 plasma cleaner allows TEM grids and holders to be cleaned and stored under vacuum.

Vacuum oven

image of the vacuum oven

The vacuum oven is used primarily for epoxy curing. It is has up to 30 programmable temperature segments and runs from ambient temperature to 500°F.

Carbon coater

A carbon coater is available in the UH Electron Microprobe Lab, POST 621.

Contact Eric Hellebrand to arrange access and training: (808) 956-6193.

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