You wish to carry out a materials analysis by cryo-TEM
The Cryo-TEM (Cryo-Transmission Electron Microscopy) analysis technique is a cutting-edge solution that allows materials to be studied at the nanometric scale, without destroying them.
What is the cryo-TEM technique?
Cryo-TEM analysis combines the principles of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and cryogenic cooling. This technique allows ultrathin samples to be observed in their native or hydrated state, without denaturation due to conventional preparations or observation conditions.
With this technique, the sample to be analyzed requires preparation. The sample is immersed in a cryogenic liquid, usually liquid ethane at very low temperatures (around -180°C) to instantly freeze the water present in the sample. This prevents the formation of ice crystals that could deform the structures. This is called vitrification.
Once prepared, the sample is maintained at cryogenic temperatures (typically around -196°C) to prevent any alteration.
TEM observations
Once the sample is vitrified, it is introduced into the cryogenic transmission electron microscope (Cryo-TEM).
- Principle of TEM: a beam of electrons passes through the ultrathin sample. Variations in the interaction between electrons and matter reveal internal structures with nanometric or atomic resolution.
- Cryo-conditions: the sample is kept in a cryogenic chamber specially designed to prevent it from dehydrating or being altered under the electron beam.
- 2D and 3D imaging: the Cryo-TEM can produce very detailed 2D images. By combining several viewing angles, it is also possible to create 3D reconstructions (cryo-electron tomography). This makes it possible to study complex structures, such as proteins or nanoparticles, in their native organization.
Cryo-TEM analysis, a specific technique from the FILAB laboratory
Sectors of application of the cryo-TEM technique:
For over 30 years, the FILAB laboratory has developed numerous skills in materials characterization. Keen to offer you the best analytical techniques in line with scientific developments, the FILAB laboratory is now able to offer you the cryo-TEM technique for the following analyses:
Etudes micro-morphologique
Identification de micro-contaminations organiques
Etude de protéines
Caractérisation de nanomatériaux
Why choose FILAB for cryo-TEM analysis?
Our teams of specialized engineers and doctoral students are at your disposal to support you in cryo-TEM analysis thanks to our cutting-edge analytical equipment, including 2 SEM-EDX and 1 SEM-EBSD. Our expertise allows us to meet your needs in a short time frame and at competitive prices. The FILAB laboratory guarantees you reliable results and offers you tailor-made support up to the interpretation of your analysis results.
