SBIR-STTR Award

Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) is a technique that allows materials to be analyzed to the nanometer and sub-nanometer scales. This instrument could achieve a new level of materials analysis if dynamic experimentation could be performed within its microscope chamber. However, this feature would require specialized specimen-holding technology to perform the desired experiments. This project will develop technology for the treatment of a specimen with reactive gases at known pressures, gas flows, and temperatures (up to 2,000oK). Phase I will establish a series of technical approaches to address the desired experimentation. All technical approaches will be analyzed by means of solid modeling, finite element analysis, and component-level prototyping and testing. The analysis will include input from engineers, researchers, and manufacturing and marketing specialists. Phase II will integrate all components into a single device suitable for commercialization.

Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee:
The development of in situ specimen holder technology should greatly enhance the quantity of information generated by TEM. Substantial benefits would accrue to both life and physical science research by furthering the characterization of structures while undergoing various changes

Transmission Electron Microscopy is a technique that allows materials to be analyzed to the nanometer and sub-nanometer scales. The next level of materials analysis will require the ability to perform dynamic experimentation within the microscope, which would require specialized specimen holding technology to perform the desired experiments. This project addresses the treatment of a specimen with reactive gases at known pressures, gas flows, and temperatures (up to 2,000°K). In Phase I, a series of technical approaches to support the desired experiments were generated and evaluated by means of solid modeling, finite element analysis. In Phase II, prototype equipment will be constructed to verify the results of the analysis. Significant experimentation will be performed in situ. The experiments will include specimen heating, mechanical stability, and gas treatment.

Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee:
The development of in situ specimen holder technology should greatly enhance the quantity and quality of information generated by Transmission Electron Microscopy. Substantial benefits would be provided to both life and physical science research by allowing structures to be characterized while undergoing various changes.