Nanotechnology is quickly redefining how we live. In the textile industry, they’re leading to intelligent, adaptable clothing that better repels stains, odors, and water. Consumer electronics, such as smartphones and other devices we use on a daily basis, are powered by transistors that are becoming ever smaller, faster, and better thanks to nanotechnology. In medicine, nanoparticles are being developed to deliver next-generation drugs and vaccines. It even has applications in the energy sector, where it is improving the efficiency of solar and wind power.
The versatility of nanoparticles arises from the fact that atoms and molecules have fundamentally different properties at the nanoscale than when they are combined to form larger particles or bulk materials. Some are better at conducting electricity and heat. Some are stronger, have different magnetic properties, or better reflect light. Materials at the nanoscale also have far greater surface areas than bulk materials, allowing nanoparticles to act as chemical catalysts in industrial applications or in automotive catalytic converters.
Quantifying the composition, sizes and shapes of nanoparticles is a crucial first step in furthering our understanding of their unique properties. Using intuitive scanning or transmission electron microscopes (S/TEM) in combination with energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX), researchers around the globe are obtaining nanometer-, and even sub-nanometer-, scale images and chemical data, giving important insights into the arrangement and potential functions of nanoparticles.
The need for large area correlative imaging at high resolution has recently increased, as it allows researchers to preserve the context of their observations while also providing statistically robust data. Thermo Scientific Maps Software enables automated, unattended acquisition of images across a sample that are then stitched together to create one large final image. Additionally, Thermo Scientific Avizo Software allows for on-the-fly processing of statistics such as size, surface area, perimeter, distribution, and chemical composition of nanoparticles. Images and chemical information from different microscopes can be correlated to retain relevant context.
Process control using electron microscopy
Modern industry demands high throughput with superior quality, a balance that is maintained through robust process control. SEM and TEM tools with dedicated automation software provide rapid, multi-scale information for process monitoring and improvement.
Quality control and failure analysis
Quality control and assurance are essential in modern industry. We offer a range of EM and spectroscopy tools for multi-scale and multi-modal analysis of defects, allowing you to make reliable and informed decisions for process control and improvement.
Fundamental Materials Research
Novel materials are investigated at increasingly smaller scales for maximum control of their physical and chemical properties. Electron microscopy provides researchers with key insight into a wide variety of material characteristics at the micro- to nano-scale.
Atomic-Scale Elemental Mapping with EDS
Atomic-resolution EDS provides unparalleled chemical context for materials analysis by differentiating the elemental identity of individual atoms. When combined with high-resolution TEM, it is possible to observe the precise organization of atoms in a sample.
EDS Elemental Analysis
EDS provides vital compositional information to electron microscope observations. In particular, our unique Super-X and Dual-X Detector Systems add options for enhanced throughput and/or sensitivity, allowing you to optimize data acquisition to meet your research priorities.
Particle analysis
Particle analysis plays a vital role in nanomaterials research and quality control. The nanometer-scale resolution and superior imaging of electron microscopy can be combined with specialized software for rapid characterization of powders and particles.
The Automated NanoParticle Workflow (APW) is a transmission electron microscope workflow for nanoparticle analysis, offering large area, high resolution imaging and data acquisition at the nanoscale, with on-the-fly processing.
Atomic-Scale Elemental Mapping with EDS
Atomic-resolution EDS provides unparalleled chemical context for materials analysis by differentiating the elemental identity of individual atoms. When combined with high-resolution TEM, it is possible to observe the precise organization of atoms in a sample.
EDS Elemental Analysis
EDS provides vital compositional information to electron microscope observations. In particular, our unique Super-X and Dual-X Detector Systems add options for enhanced throughput and/or sensitivity, allowing you to optimize data acquisition to meet your research priorities.
Particle analysis
Particle analysis plays a vital role in nanomaterials research and quality control. The nanometer-scale resolution and superior imaging of electron microscopy can be combined with specialized software for rapid characterization of powders and particles.
The Automated NanoParticle Workflow (APW) is a transmission electron microscope workflow for nanoparticle analysis, offering large area, high resolution imaging and data acquisition at the nanoscale, with on-the-fly processing.
Electron microscopy services for
the materials science
To ensure optimal system performance, we provide you access to a world-class network of field service experts, technical support, and certified spare parts.
