A precision core drill for transmission electron microscopy sample preparation produced by 3D printing

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Mechanical Engineering
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Precise sample preparation is crucial for materials analysis.
• Traditional methods for preparing hard, brittle samples can be costly and complex.
• 3D printing offers potential for rapid prototyping and custom tool fabrication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and construct a precision core-drilling machine primarily using 3D printing.
• To develop novel 3D printed components for the drill, including slide bearings and shaft couplings.
• To evaluate the performance of the 3D printed drill in preparing samples for transmission electron microscopy.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing additive manufacturing (3D printing) for the majority of the drill's components.
• Developing innovative designs for load-bearing 3D printed parts like bearings and couplings.
• Testing the drill's efficacy by preparing 3mm diameter discs from silicon and aluminum samples.

Main Results:

• Successful construction of a functional precision core-drilling machine with extensive 3D printed parts.
• Demonstrated capability to extract 3mm discs from hard, brittle materials like silicon and aluminum.
• Validation of novel 3D printed slide bearings and shaft couplings for mechanical applications.

Conclusions:

• A cost-effective, self-producible 3D printed core-drilling machine is feasible for laboratory use.
• The developed drill facilitates sample preparation for transmission electron microscopy.
• This approach supports laboratory sustainability goals through accessible technology and recyclability.