The purpose of TEM analysis is to examine samples at very high magnification and allow scientists and researchers to observe extremely small objects. It is used to study the microstructure of materials, examine particle size and shape, analyse surfaces or interfaces, perform failure analysis, characterise nanomaterials, and much more. TEM analysis can be used to analyse a wide variety of samples such as metals, alloys, ceramics, semiconductors, organic polymeric materials, proteins and other biological substances. With its high resolution capabilities and its ability to gather valuable information in a relatively short time, it has become an invaluable tool for the scientific community. With TEM analysis comes the responsibility to ensure that the sample is handled correctly and that proper safety protocols are followed. For this reason, it is important to have a competent and experienced operator perform the TEM analysis.
By performing a detailed visual inspection under high magnification, TEM analysis can provide information about the structure and composition of materials that cannot be obtained by other methods. It offers an unparalleled level of detail that allows the detection of microstructural defects such as discontinuities, inclusions or voids. Thanks to its increased resolution capabilities compared to optical microscopy, researchers are now able to characterise nanostructures with unprecedented precision.