Sample preparation

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SEM Pathology

Contents

2. Sample preparation

• (1) Sample preparation tools
• (2) Sample preparation for low-vacuum SEM (tabletop SEM)
• (3) General sample preparation (for high-vacuum SEM)

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An introduction

2. Sample preparation

Sample preparation methods for SEM observation

(1) Sample preparation tools

Sample stub	Usually made of aluminum or other non-magnetic material in various shapes and sizes appropriate to the purpose of observation (e.g., cross-sectional observation).
Double coated carbon conductive tape	Used for mounting the sample on the stub. Convenient for magnifications up to 20,000×. Usually carbon (C), though other conductive material (e.g., copper [Cu]) can be used.
Carbon paste	Conductive paste is used for magnifications of 20,000× or higher because it most securely holds the sample in place. Carbon (C) paste is the usual choice, but silver (Ag) or other conductive paste can also be used. For samples that are altered by organic solvents, a water-soluble paste is required. Wooden picks or bamboo splints are convenient and commonly used to apply the paste to the stub.
Tweezers	Used carefully to avoid touching the sample surface.
Bulb blower	Used to blow dust from the sample surface or cross-section or excess sample following powder sample preparation.

(2) Sample preparation procedure for low-vacuum SEM (tabletop SEM)

(3) Ordinary sample preparation (for high-vacuum SEM)

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