Improved methods and novel techniques for jet electropolishing of TEM foils.

摘要

Experience has shown that the difficulties encountered in jet polishing of TEM foils can be minimized by the selection of equipment and an electrolyte appropriate for each material. The use of a jet polishing instrument for more than one type of specimen preparation after minor modification will be presented. Some insights on the relationship and manipulation of the parameters involved in achieving well polished TEM foils having appropriate surface quality, thin area, and perforation size will be included. Methods used to develop new electrolytes for specific purposes and the results of their use on both conventional and superconducting materials will be shown. A technique to calibrate equipment for more reproducible specimen hole size, use of new electrolytes and various materials, the salvage of unsatisfactory foils, and thinning of undersized specimens will be reviewed. 13 refs., 30 figs.