Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 29, 2026

Specimen Preparation, Imaging, and Analysis Protocols for Knife-edge Scanning Microscopy
Published on: December 9, 2011
Evaluating the Use of Edge Detection in Extracting Feature Size from Scanning Electrochemical Microscopy Images
Lisa I Stephens1, Nicholas A Payne1, Sebastian A Skaanvik1
1Department of Chemistry , McGill University , Montreal , QC H3A 0B8 , Canada.
Abstract:
The edge of a reactive or topographical feature is hard to estimate from feedback-based scanning electrochemical microscopy due to diffusional blurring, but is crucial to determining the accurate size and shape of these features. In this work, numerical simulations are used to demonstrate that the inflection point in a 1D line scan corresponds well to the true feature edge. This approach is then applied in 2D using the Canny algorithm to experimental images of two model substrates and a biological sample. This approach circumvents the need for aligning the imaged region between separate microscopy techniques, reveals hidden details embedded in SECM images, and allows individual features to be separated from their background more effectively.
Related Concept Videos
What is an Electrochemical Gradient?
The chemical gradient relies on differences in the abundance of a substance on the outside versus the inside of a cell and flows from areas of high to low ion concentration. In contrast, the electrical gradient revolves around an...
Scanning Electron Microscopy
Fundamental Principles
Accelerated...
Irritable Bowel Syndrome II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Evaluation
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is classified into subtypes based on the predominant bowel habits as determined by the Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS). The subtypes are:
Leaky Scanning
Cell Size
Surface Area
Cells can take in nutrients and water via diffusion through the plasma membrane itself or through specific channels in the membrane. The area of the membrane surrounding...
Interfacial Electrochemical Methods: Overview

