Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) Introduction

What is the primary function of a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)?

What kind of information can be revealed about the sample by the signals derived from electron-sample interactions in an SEM?

What is the SEM capable of analyzing in the selected point locations on the sample?

How does kinetic energy from accelerated electrons in an SEM get dissipated in a solid sample?

What does EDS stand for in relation to the capabilities of an SEM?

Which signal is most valuable for illustrating contrasts in composition in multiphase samples?

What is the essential component of all SEMs that includes the electron source and detectors for all signals of interest?

What is produced by inelastic collisions of the incident electrons with electrons in discrete orbitals (shells) of atoms in the sample?

What does SEM analysis consider to be 'non-destructive'?

What can SEMs equipped with diffracted backscattered electron detectors (EBSD) be used to examine?

Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)

The primary function of an SEM is to produce high-resolution images of the sample surface by scanning it with a focused beam of electrons.

Electron-Sample Interactions

Signals derived from electron-sample interactions in an SEM can reveal information about the sample's topography, morphology, and composition.
These interactions can produce a range of signals, including secondary electrons, backscattered electrons, and X-rays, which provide valuable information about the sample.

Point Analysis

The SEM is capable of analyzing the composition of the sample at selected point locations, enabling the identification of elemental distributions and chemical compositions.

Energy Dissipation

The kinetic energy from accelerated electrons in an SEM is dissipated in a solid sample through heat generation, causing the sample to warm up.

EDS

EDS stands for Energy-Dispersive Spectroscopy, which is a capability of an SEM that enables the analysis of the elemental composition of a sample.

Contrast in Composition

The X-ray signal is most valuable for illustrating contrasts in composition in multiphase samples, as it provides information about the elemental distribution.

Essential Component

The essential component of all SEMs is the electron column, which includes the electron source and detectors for all signals of interest.

Inelastic Collisions

Inelastic collisions of the incident electrons with electrons in discrete orbitals (shells) of atoms in the sample produce X-rays.

Non-Destructive Analysis

SEM analysis is considered 'non-destructive' because the sample is not damaged or altered during the analysis process.

EBSD

SEMs equipped with diffracted backscattered electron detectors (EBSD) can be used to examine the crystal structure and orientation of materials.

Learn about the basics of Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), including its functionality and potential magnification. Understand how SEM uses electron beams to scan a sample's surface and record information about the interaction, creating a magnified image.