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Preparation of Graphene-Supported Microwell Liquid Cells for In Situ Transmission Electron Microscopy
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Evolution of Glassy Carbon Microstructure: In Situ Transmission Electron Microscopy of the Pyrolysis Process
Swati Sharma1, C N Shyam Kumar2,3, Jan G Korvink4
1Institute of Microstructure Technology, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76334, Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany. swati.sharma@kit.edu.
Scientific Reports
|November 4, 2018
Summary
Researchers visualized the microstructural evolution of glassy carbon during polymer pyrolysis using in situ high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM). This study reveals dynamic changes in graphene fragments, offering insights into glassy carbon formation.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Polymer Chemistry
Background:
- Glassy carbon is a graphene-rich material formed by polymer pyrolysis.
- Its structure consists of curved graphene fragments, disordered carbon, and voids.
- Understanding its microstructural evolution is key to controlling properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and apply an in situ HR-TEM method for visualizing polymer pyrolysis.
- To investigate the microstructural changes in glassy carbon formation between 500-1200°C.
- To compare experimental observations with existing glassy carbon models.
Main Methods:
- Utilized in situ high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM).
- Employed MEMS-based heating chips for polymer sample heating (500-1200°C) under inert atmosphere.
- Conducted experiments at 80 kV to minimize beam damage.
Main Results:
- Direct visualization of microstructural evolution during polymer pyrolysis.
- Observed dynamic changes in the geometry, expansion, and atomic arrangement of graphene fragments.
- Identified intermediate structures providing crucial information on glassy carbon formation.
Conclusions:
- The study provides direct experimental evidence of microstructural evolution during glassy carbon formation.
- Intermediate structures offer critical insights into the dynamic process.
- Understanding pyrolysis enables tuning precursor polymers for desired glassy carbon properties.
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