Microscopy Lab - SEM Course Outline

Week 1 - Lecture (Chapter 5)

• Fixation including standard fixation and alternative techniques
• Dehydration
• Critical point drying and freeze drying
• Mounting and storage of tissue
• Sputter coating
• Lab
• Location of chemicals and supplies
• Demonstrations: critical point dryer, sputter coater

Week 2 - Lecture (Chapters 1, 2)

• Principles of SEM
• Electron optics
• Electromagnetic lenses
• SEM Imaging Process
• Vacuum System
• Lab
• Basic use of the SEM
• Individual instruction

Week 3 - Lecture (Chapters 3, 4)

• Principles of SEM
• Electron beam dynamics – x-ray microanalysis, auger, etc.
• Lab
• Photographing electron micrographs
• Use of apertures, working distance and condensor lens setting for increasing depth of field and resolution
• Stigmation
• Artifacts

Week 4 - Lecture (Chapter 6)

• Basic Photography
• Lab
• Darkroom procedures and digital imaging

Week 5 - Lab (Chapter 7)

• Preparation and copy of plates for publication
• Preparation of digital media for presentation

Week 6 - Individual help on finishing projects