TEM Sample Preparation for Powder and Liquid Formulations

Analysis of every sample under TEM analysis require specific sample preparation protocol as per respective material properties. In current chapter, dedicatedly an attempt has been made w.r.t. TEM analysis of specimen belong to powder as well of liquid formulations. Systematic classification has been made for powder and liquid formulations/samples w.r.t. TEM and HRTEM instrument role in respective analysis. In order to achieve precise TEM analysis w.r.t. powder and liquid based samples, controlled synthesis conditions, insitu monitoring, uniform particle distribution with versatile and sustainable approach etc., will be immensely desired. In case of liquid formulation, properties of solvent like purity, density, dielectric constant, volatile nature, respective disposal etc., will be very much crucial and important in respective analysis. Recent chapter have also summarized about the role of ultrasonication, centrifugation, stabilizing agent, TEM grid drying validation etc. With the help of above-mentioned processes, different factor related to ideal imaging of specimen viz. suitable sample and grid selection, precise beam alignment with low dose imaging, balanced image contrast, tilt series acquisition etc., will be helpful in performing insightful imaging analysis. Further, the remediation-oriented approach towards different challenges during different modes on imaging with appropriate image processing also has been presented. Ultimately, the whole approach under current chapter will be focused in maintaining the integrity of sample with artefacts free surfaces for high quality ultrastructural imaging of liquid as well powder samples.