In collaboration with the Triangle MRSEC,
a team from NC State University was awarded a grant from the NSF-MRI program
for the purchase of extreme-resolution scanning electron microscope (/www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=1337694 ).
The state-of-the-art instrument will serve the greater Research Triangle
community for research and education, and will be housed at NC State’s
Analytical Instrumentation Facility. The Varios extreme-resolution FESEM
has resolving
power approaching atomic dimensions. Its low energy probe allows researchers to
explore soft matter substances like plastics, natural fibers, and
cells. These
capabilities
will enhance materials research at Triangle MRSEC, including
nanoparticle
composites,
colloidal assemblies, and DNA-mediated organic-inorganic assemblies. The instrument
will also
create new
outreach opportunities to inspire future STEM students.
