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Scanning Electron Microscopy

Scanning Electron Microscopy

A scanning electron microscope (SEM) is used to study the surface features of a sample by using an electron beam that scans the sample surface in a two-dimensional manner. Typically, areas between ~1 centimeter to 5 micrometers in width can be imaged. SEM can be used to image bacteria, viruses, tissues as well as larger samples like insects. Conventional SEM gives a magnification ranging from 20X to 30,000X and spatial resolution of 50 to 100 nanometers.
Fundamental Principles
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Overview of Electron Microscopy

Overview of Electron Microscopy

The wavelengths of visible light ultimately limit the maximum theoretical resolution of images created by light microscopes. Most light microscopes can only magnify 1000X, and a few can magnify up to 1500X. Electrons, like electromagnetic radiation, can behave like waves, but with wavelengths of 0.005 nm, they produce significantly greater resolution up to 0.05 nm as compared to 500 nm for visible light. An electron microscope (EM) can create a sharp image that is magnified up to 2,000,000X.

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Updated: Oct 19, 2025

High-resolution Thermal Micro-imaging Using Europium Chelate Luminescent Coatings

High-resolution Thermal Micro-imaging Using Europium Chelate Luminescent Coatings

Published on: April 16, 2017

Spatially resolved Eu(III) environments by chemical microscopy.

Manja Vogel¹, Robin Steudtner², Tobias Fankhänel²

¹HZDR Innovation GmbH, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany.

|September 27, 2021

Summary

Chemical microscopy uses high-resolution spectra and spatial resolution to study inhomogeneous samples. This technique distinguishes multiple Europium (Eu(III)) coordination sites, showing its potential in environmental, medical, and biological applications.

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Last Updated: Oct 19, 2025

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Published on: May 10, 2021

Area of Science:

Analytical Chemistry
Spectroscopy
Materials Science

Background:

Chemical microscopy integrates spectral analysis with spatial resolution.
It is crucial for analyzing inhomogeneous samples at the sub-micron scale.
Europium (Eu(III)) is a potential molecular probe.

Purpose of the Study:

To demonstrate the capability of chemical microscopy for analyzing complex samples.
To spatially resolve different Europium (Eu(III)) coordination sites.
To highlight the utility of Eu(III) as a molecular probe.

Main Methods:

Utilizing high-resolution emission spectra.
Employing Abbe-limited spatial resolution.
Analyzing inhomogeneous samples at the (sub-)micron scale.

Main Results:

Successfully achieved spatial distinction of multiple Eu(III) coordination sites.
Demonstrated the comprehensive understanding of environmental samples.
Showcased the applicability of Eu(III) as a molecular probe.

Conclusions:

Chemical microscopy is effective for sub-micron scale analysis of inhomogeneous samples.
Eu(III) coordination site analysis provides deep insights into environmental and biological systems.
Eu(III) shows significant promise as a molecular probe in various scientific fields.