SEM provides superb visualisation at high magnification and the associated EDX analysis capability can provide an elemental profile of a specimen.
SEM-EDX is used in every scientific field and has a wide range of applications across biology, chemistry, forensic science and engineering. Capable of excellent resolution at nanometre scale and with superb depth-of-field, the production of images for investigation and publication is unrivalled. The inclusion of the EDX analysis to investigate chemical composition is particularly useful for engineering and forensic science applications.
Our researchers, students and customers have used this facility for:
- Determination of pollution particulate levels
- Imaging of diatoms, insects, plant material
- Bacteria and biofilms
- Forensic investigation of heat damage to hair
- Identification and classification of fibres
- Investigation of microplastics
- Measurement of tool marks in bone
- Gunshot residue and firearms research
- Investigation trace evidence on features (wildlife crime)
- Quality assessment of photovoltaic thin film fabrication
- Assessment of manufacturing specifications of abrasive papers
- Investigation of parts failure in engines and other mechanical structures
- Determination of effectiveness of engineering processes
- Investigation of dust deposits in the workplace
References:
Weerakkody, Dover, Mitchell and Reiling (2018) Topographical structures in planting design of living walls affect their ability to immobilise traffic-based particulate matter. Science of The Total Environment, Volume 660, 10 April 2019, Pages 644-649. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.12.292
Summerscales and Gwinnett (2017) Ch. 5 - Forensic identification of bast fibres, Editor(s): Dipa Ray, Biocomposites for High-Performance Applications, Woodhead Publishing, 2017, Pages 125-164, ISBN 9780081007938,
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-08-100793-8.00005-3
Wilkinson, Bailey and Gwinnett (2020) The Creation of an Assessment Tool for the Analysis of Two Forms of Heat Damage in Animal Hair. Forensic Science International. Available online 28 April 2020, 110265 In Press, Journal Pre-proof. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0379073820301274
Equipment
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JEOL JSM 6610V variable pressure scanning electron microscope with Oxford MMax50 X-ray EDS system