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Using Graphene Liquid Cell Transmission Electron Microscopy to Study in Situ Nanocrystal Etching
Published on: May 17, 2018
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Using Graphene Liquid Cell Transmission Electron Microscopy to Study in Situ Nanocrystal Etching
Matthew R Hauwiller1, Justin C Ondry1, A Paul Alivisatos2
1Department of Chemistry, University of California-Berkeley.
Journal of Visualized Experiments : Jove
|June 5, 2018
Summary
Graphene liquid cell transmission electron microscopy (TEM) enables real-time observation of nanoscale chemical reactions in liquids. This technique visualizes gold nanocrystal etching dynamics, offering insights into atomic removal mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Observing nanoscale chemical transformations in liquid is crucial for understanding material behavior.
- Traditional methods often lack the resolution or environmental control to capture dynamic processes.
- Graphene liquid cell electron microscopy offers a novel approach to in-situ liquid-phase nanomaterial studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail the protocol for fabricating graphene liquid cells for transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
- To demonstrate the application of this technique for observing the oxidative etching of gold nanocrystals.
- To investigate the mechanisms of atomic removal and shape evolution during nanocrystal etching.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of graphene liquid cells by encapsulating liquid between two graphene-coated TEM grids.
- Utilizing chemical vapor deposition graphene to create liquid-tight sample environments.
- Performing transmission electron microscopy (TEM) on gold nanorods within the liquid cells to observe etching dynamics.
Main Results:
- Successfully demonstrated the real-time observation of gold nanocrystal oxidative etching.
- Showcased the ability to control reaction dynamics by modulating electron beam dose rate.
- Provided insights into the atomic-level mechanisms governing nanocrystal shape transformation.
Conclusions:
- Graphene liquid cell TEM is a powerful tool for studying nanoscale chemical dynamics in liquids.
- The technique offers high spatial resolution and compatibility with existing TEM infrastructure.
- Further development could establish this method as a standard for nanomaterial and biological research.
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