Laboratory for SEM/EDX Analysis
Quantitative information and imaging even on small areas

In scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the sample surface is scanned by a finely-focused electron beam. This is used to generate well focused images. Subsequent X-ray analysis (EDX) makes it possible to determine the elementary composition of very small areas on your sample.

Detail SEM/EDX

Details on SEM/EDX Analysis in our Laboratory
Element composition, topography, morphology

In Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM analysis), a sample surface is scanned with a finely focused electron beam. The electron bombardment leads to the emission of low-energy secondary electrons, to the backscattering of high-energy primary electrons and the emission of element-specific X-radiation.

Low-energy secondary electrons come from the uppermost nanometers of a sample. The associated images represent the sample topography with resolution limits in the nm range. The intensity of scattered primary electrons, however, is determined by the mean atomic number of the sample material. Corresponding pictures illustrate the distribution of different materials (material contrast images). The information depth in this mode is on the order of 1 μm. The X-ray radiation - specific for the elemental composition of the sample - is used for chemical characterization. Suitable detectors, determine either the energy or the wavelength of the X-radiation. The measured intensities allow quantitative statements about the elemental composition and distribution in SEM/EDX analysis. The depth from which the X-rays originate depends on the material and the selected excitation energy. For typical energies of 10 to 20 keV it lies in the µm range.

Samples for SEM/EDX analysis must be vacuum-compatible, whereby modern devices can be used at pressures of approx. 1 mbar (environmental scanning electron microscopy, E-SEM).

Tascon - Your partner for SEM/EDX analysis

If you want to know whether SEM/EDX analysis is applicable and useful for your samples, please do not hesitate to contact the experts at Tascon GmbH. Our laboratory has over 20 years of experience in the field of SEM/EDX analysis and surface analysis. We are looking forward to your call and would be pleased to make you an offer for your samples.

Get in touch.  Contact one of our analytical professionals:

+49 251 596890-10