Aug. 22, 2011

Three Dimensional Microscopy - Imaging 3D Microstructures by Freeform Microoptics

A traditional microscope looks at a sample from one specific direction and acquires a two-dimensional (2D) projection of the sample in that direction. Although the information collected by a conventional microscope is very helpful in understanding the microstructures of the sample, under many circumstances 2D information alone is not enough or even confusing. In recent decades there is a trend to develop three-dimensional (3D) microscopes in order to obtain 3D microstructures. moreNov. 01, 2009

3D Upgrade for Optical Microscopes

In conventional microscopic images of materials and life cells, only object intensity and colour are imaged. However, the phase of the light beam bears information about the 3D structure of the object with which the light interacted. A new method developed by PhaseView in France allows upgrading conventional light microscopes. A simple and affordable device plus a Digital Phase Software give the microscope the ability to display and measure surfaces in three dimensions. moreNov. 01, 2008

3D Orientation Microscopy

Combining electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and a focused ion beam (FIB) together into a single instrument enables three dimensional (3D) characterization of microstructure in crystalline materials. Combining these techniques together has enormous potential in materials science.

Electron Backscatter Diffraction

Traditionally, microstructure refers to features that are visually evident in an optical or electron microscope. However, many critical aspects of microstructure are not visually evident. more