For decades, the scanning electron microscope (SEM) has helped us understand the world around us. Scientists and non-scientists have been able to enlarge images of materials and objects as small as 15 nanometers.
A scanning electron microscope (SEM) is a powerful magnifying tool that uses focused electron beams to obtain information. The high-resolution three-dimensional images produced by SEMs provide topographic, morphological, and compositional information that makes them invaluable in a variety of scientific and industrial applications.
SEM Applications
SEM has helped us to contextualize the world in which we all live. It has a wide variety of applications in several scientific and industry-related fields, especially where solid material characterizations are beneficial.
Topographical, Morphological & Compositional Info
A scanning electron microscope provides information on microstructures, examines surface contaminants, reveals spatial variations in chemical compositions, provides qualitative chemical analysis, and identifies crystal structures.
Technological Applications
SEM specializes in semiconductor inspection, production line of minuscule products, and assembly of microchips for computers.
Microchip Assembly
Microchip production increasingly relies on SEMs to better understand the efficiency of new production and manufacturing methods. With ever-shrinking scales and materials, as well as the potential of complex self-assembling polymers, the high-resolution three-dimensional capability of SEMs is invaluable for microchip design and production.
The Science Industry
The scanning electron microscope (SEM) is widely used by scientists in a variety of fields to learn more about the composition and topography of natural and man-made materials.
For example, the electron microscope has allowed biologists to learn more about microscopic organisms, such as bacteria and viruses. Likewise, geologists often use it to find out more about crystal structures.
Business Applications
Industries including medical devices, general manufacturing, insurance, and litigation support, and food processing, all use SEMs as a way to examine the surface composition of components and products.
A scanning electron microscope can help companies specialize in product development or manufacturing to guarantee the highest standard of quality in the market. For example, stainless steel must be uniformly coated with special chemicals for optimal performance. A scanning electron microscope will help identify cracks, imperfections, or contaminants.
Forensic Field
Forensic investigation is becoming more and more important and the role of the scanning electron microscope (SEM) is increasing. SEM can examine detail on a wide range of materials in an easily interpreted manner.
For that reason, the forensic microscope has become an indispensable tool. Here are some of the most valuable applications:
- Gunshot Residue Analysis
- Firearms Identification
- Investigation of Gemstones & Jewellery
- Paint Particles & Fibres Examination
- Handwriting & Print Examination
- Non-conducting Materials Examination
- High-Resolution Surface Imaging
- And more…
Electron Optics Instruments Offer SEM Services
Electron Optics Instruments is the leading scanning electron microscope (SEM) distributor in the United States. With over 30 years of experience, we have learned how to deliver the best service and top-quality products.