Fundamentals of TEM Sample Preparation

Journey of quality imaging under transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for specimens belong from materials (non-living) to biological science (living) will be governed by precise sample preparation methods and techniques. With the systematic classification of specimen belong to biological, inorganic, soft specimen etc. categories, will be easy to perform respective specimens’ novel analysis. Every sample under EM analysis require dedicated preparation protocol as per respective sample nature and properties. Most importantly, the remediation-oriented handling of different challenges during sample preparation w.r.t. TEM analysis viz. knowledge of material, electron beam interaction with sample, induction of artefacts, optimum specimen thickness, staining procedure, sample drying, grid handling procedure etc., need to follow. In addition, all safety guidelines must be followed during major and minor sample preparation and EM operation procedure. With this chapter, researchers will get aware about systematic handling of different sample w.r.t. precise TEM analysis with maintaining specimen integrity and achieving high-resolution features at molecular or atomic scale.