Abstract
Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is a traditional electron microscopy technique widely used for structure characterization in materials science, chemistry, biology and polymer science. In this chapter, we introduce the principles of SEM operation and the set up of a typical SEM, including the electron sources, electron beam, lenses and apertures. In SEM, secondary electrons, backscattering electrons and characteristic X-rays can be collected to give structural or chemical composition information. Environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM), which operates without exposing volatile samples to high vacuum, is introduced for biological applications. SEM is one of the most powerful and maneuverable tools in nanotechnology. We present, as an example, the use of SEM for the characterization of protein (zein) micro- and nanostructures formed by evaporation-induced self-assembly. Finally, we introduce three limitations encountered in SEM experimentation that can impact the quality of the SEM images. These are radiation damage, contamination and charging effect.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Nanotechnology Research Methods for Foods and Bioproducts |
Publisher | Wiley-Blackwell |
Pages | 103-126 |
Number of pages | 24 |
ISBN (Print) | 9780813817316 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 20 Feb 2012 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Charging
- Contamination
- Environmental scanning electron microscopy
- ESEM
- Nanotechnology
- Scanning electron microscopy
- SEM
- Structure characterization
- Zein
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Biochemistry,Genetics and Molecular Biology
- General Agricultural and Biological Sciences