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A Novel Method for In Situ Electromechanical Characterization of Nanoscale Specimens
Published on: June 2, 2017
In-situ observation and relocation method of nanomaterial samples based on microscope systems
Leyong Zeng1, Aiguo Wu, Yazhuo Wang
1Division of Functional Materials and Nano Devices, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Materials and Devices, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, People's Republic of China.
Microscopy Research and Technique
|July 16, 2011
Summary
A new method allows precise in situ observation and relocation of nanomaterials using a microscope. This technique, demonstrated with poly(lactic acid) microbubbles and purple membranes, enables accurate sample manipulation and secondary processing.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Microscopy
Background:
- Precise manipulation and relocation of nanomaterials are crucial for advanced research and device fabrication.
- Current methods often lack the accuracy or versatility needed for complex in situ operations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a general in situ observation and relocation method for nanomaterial samples using microscope systems.
- To enable accurate repositioning and subsequent manipulation of nanomaterials after removal and reinsertion onto a microscope stage.
Main Methods:
- A four-grade coordinate system with varying precision was fabricated onto a substrate using UV lithography.
- Poly(lactic acid) microbubbles and purple membranes were observed at specific positions using optical and scanning probe microscopy.
- The coordinate values and distances to sample features were recorded for precise relocation.
Main Results:
- The developed method successfully enabled accurate in situ observation and relocation of nanomaterial samples.
- Recorded coordinate data allowed for easy re-identification of specific sample locations.
- The technique facilitates manipulation and secondary processing of nanomaterials at precise locations.
Conclusions:
- The in situ observation and relocation method is versatile, applicable across different microscope systems and substrates.
- This technique holds significant potential for micro- and nano-device manipulation and secondary processing.

