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Visualizing the invisible

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a new model to aid interpretation of atomic resolution molecular images. The Z-correlated molecular model accurately fits imaging data and helps chemists analyze electron microscope images without theoretical calculations.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 28, 2022

This pyramid scheme could be helpful

Rice University researchers have developed a method to control the growth of tetrahedron-shaped nanoparticles, which can be used as building blocks for unique metamaterials. The team discovered that balancing thermodynamic and kinetic forces during crystallization allows for symmetry breaking, forming pyramid-shaped nanocrystals.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 22, 2021

Chemists provide a new look at the problem of energy efficiency in lithium-ion batteries

A new study refutes a long-standing explanation for low energy efficiency in lithium-ion batteries, suggesting that voltage hysteresis is caused by reversible electron transfer between oxygen and transition metal atoms. This phenomenon could be mitigated through manipulation of electron transfer barriers.

Skoltech imaging resources used in international experiment with new photocatalysts

Researchers from Skoltech and international partners study crystal structure and optical properties of new two-dimensional compounds for energy conversion. The study used advanced imaging equipment to analyze the material's structure, leading to potential improvements in photocatalytic activity.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 1, 2021

Controlling chemical catalysts with sculpted light

Scientists have developed a method to control the activity of chemical catalysts using sculpted light, which can lead to faster or more efficient reactions. By manipulating the location of reactive sites on the catalyst, researchers can optimize the performance of single catalysts and avoid unwanted reactions.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience·DateJan 15, 2021

In sight: A paradigm shift in materials characterization

Lehigh University researchers are transforming an aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) into a synchrotron facility, expanding scientists' ability to characterize material composition and bonding status down to the single-atom level. The new system will have capabilities up to ~13,000 eV and enable the i...

Attosecond boost for electron microscopy

Researchers at University of Konstanz and Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München develop a prototypical attosecond electron microscope (A-TEM) that enables visualization of light-matter interactions at attosecond speeds. This breakthrough can facilitate the exploration of atomic origins of light-matter interactions in complex materials...

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 11, 2020

A simple retrofit transforms electron microscopes into high-speed atom-scale cameras

Researchers have developed a retrofit to transform transmission electron microscopes into high-speed cameras, capturing processes on the atomic scale. The 'beam chopper' technology enables laboratories to investigate super-fast phenomena without expensive laser systems or specialized expertise.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateFeb 24, 2020

Crystal clear

The KAUST team has developed a methodology for acquiring atomic-resolution images of beam-sensitive materials, such as metal organic frameworks, using transmission electron microscopy. This enables the precise alignment and determination of defocus values, reducing the procedure to a near-routine process.

New microscopy method for quick and reliable 3-D imaging of curvilinear nanostructures

EPFL researchers have developed a scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) method to generate fast and reliable 3D images of complex curvilinear structures. This tilt-less 3D electron imaging technique can acquire images in a single shot, opening up new avenues for real-time 3D imaging of dynamic material and biological processes.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 6, 2017

Making better batteries via real-time TEM observation

A recent study has made a breakthrough in developing better batteries via real-time transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observation. The research team successfully hermetically encapsulated sulfur particles using two-dimensional materials like molybdenum disulfide, preventing leakage and sublimation. This innovation could lead to im...

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 24, 2017

A glimpse inside the atom

A research team has demonstrated that energy-filtered transmission electron microscopy (EFTEM) can be used to image individual electron orbits within atoms. This technique allows for penetration down to the subatomic level, opening up new possibilities for the study of atomic structures.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 18, 2016

Seeing atoms

Chinese researchers have developed a new in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) technique that offers powerful functionality to understand atomic-scale structure and its correlation with physical and chemical properties. The technique has potential applications in smart windows, energy management, and environmental protection.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 7, 2016

Ready for their close-up

Scientists have developed a technique using scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) to view proteins tagged with gold nanoparticles in whole, intact cells. This method offers ten times better resolution than optical microscopes and could help study cancer processes and understand how viruses hijack healthy cells.

The wonders of graphene on display

Researchers at the University of Manchester showcase graphene's remarkable story and potential applications. Visitors can interact with a virtual microscope, see real images of graphene, and learn about its unique properties, including superconductivity, transparency, and high strength.