Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2025

Single-Digit Nanometer Electron-Beam Lithography with an Aberration-Corrected Scanning Transmission Electron Microscope
Published on: September 14, 2018
Design of Electrostatic Aberration Correctors for Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy.
Stephanie M Ribet1,2,3, Steven E Zeltmann4,5, Karen C Bustillo3
1Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA.
This study introduces an electrostatic phase plate as a novel aberration corrector for scanning transmission electron microscopes (STEM). This device improves image resolution and enables new beam profiles for advanced microscopy applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Physics
- Electron Microscopy
Background:
- High-resolution imaging in scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) relies on precisely focused electron beams.
- Aberrations from imperfect magnetic lenses limit achievable resolution in STEM.
- Current hardware aberration correctors are complex and costly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate an electrostatic phase plate as an effective aberration corrector for STEM.
- To explore the creation of novel STEM beam profiles using this device.
Main Methods:
- Designed an electrostatic phase plate with independent annular segments.
- Each segment applies a phase shift to a portion of the electron beam.
- Tested the corrector's performance in a STEM setup.
Main Results:
- The electrostatic corrector significantly improved image resolution.
- Demonstrated the generation of vortex beams and phase-diverse probes.
- Observed challenges with probe tails due to aperture obstruction.
Conclusions:
- Electrostatic phase plates offer a viable alternative for aberration correction in STEM.
- This technology enables advanced beam shaping for enhanced microscopy.
- Further optimization is needed to mitigate artifacts like probe tails.
More Related Videos
09:13Characterization of Ultra-fine Grained and Nanocrystalline Materials Using Transmission Kikuchi Diffraction
Published on: April 1, 2017
07:24Quantitative Atomic-Site Analysis of Functional Dopants/Point Defects in Crystalline Materials by Electron-Channeling-Enhanced Microanalysis
Published on: May 10, 2021
Related Concept Videos
Scanning Electron Microscopy
Fundamental Principles
Accelerated...
Transmission Electron Microscopy
Overview of Electron Microscopy
Preparation of Samples for Electron Microscopy