Liquid-Cell Transmission Electron Microscopy Holder with Controlled Liquid Heating for Studying Nanoscale Dynamic Processes in Solid-Liquid Systems

Abstract

This DURIP grant proposal is for the purchase of a Protochips Poseidon Select Liquid-Sample Holder to be used for conducting variable temperature liquid-cell transmission electron microscopy (LCTEM) experiments. This liquid holder, which can be used with any side-entry FEI brand TEM, enables the direct observation of the shapes and sizes of nanomaterials in liquid. Moreover, it is uniquely capable of providing the means for imaging and understanding dynamic behavior occurring at the nanoscale at temperatures ranging from ambient to 100° C. LCTEM is an emerging, disruptive and groundbreaking technique that continues to reveal many previously unknown process that occur in solution, on the nanoscale, such as those involved in nucleation, growth, self-assembly, motion, and transformation. Insights into fundamental processes occurring at the nanoscale, enabled by LCTEM studies are expanding our knowledge in a range of important research areas from battery technology and synthetic catalysts, to basic biology and biochemistry. A major research focus of the Gianneschi Lab is in the development of functional synthetic nanomaterials, which range in applications from biological sense-response systems to highly porous micro- and nanostructures for catalysis and gas storage. Using the Protochips LCTEM holder, we will deepen our understanding of the mechanisms involved in the formation and growth, and dynamic behavior of these nanomaterials in their natural, native liquid environments at variable temperatures. We will leverage these unique capabilities to strategically design next-generation materials with superior functional properties.

Document Details

Document Type
DoD Grant Award
Publication Date
Apr 09, 2018
Source ID
FA95501810036

Entities

People

  • Nathan C. Gianneschi

Organizations

  • Air Force Office of Scientific Research
  • United States Air Force
  • University of California, San Diego

Tags

Readers

  • Nanoscale Plasmonic Nanotechnology
  • Research Science/Academic Research

Technology Areas

  • Microelectronics