Imaging technique observes single atoms
17 Jul 2013
Experts at the York JEOL Nanocentre have developed an innovative electron microscopy technology designed to analyse atomic structure and nanoparticles.
The research method is capable of observing and understanding atoms and the role they play in various areas of physical science.
Until now, scientists have generally only been able to study atomic reactions with idealised systems under vacuum.
The technology is capable of observing and analysing single atoms, small cluster and nanoparticles
However, Ed Boyes and Pratibha Gai, JEOL Nanocentre professors, have developed atomic resolution in-situ aberration corrected environmental scanning transmission electron microscopy technology (in-situ AC-ESTEM) for catalyst reaction studies in realistic reaction conditions.
The technology, stated the professors, is capable of observing and analysing single atoms, small cluster and nanoparticles in dynamic in-situ experiments with controlled gas reaction environments at initial operating temperatures of up to 500?C under transient reaction conditions.
Professor Gai, co-director of the York JEOL Nanocentre, commented: “The fundamental basic building blocks of matter, in many reactions and is especially important for the development of new medicines and new energy sources.”
The team have been able to image individual platinum atoms on carbon supports in a reacting catalyst under controlled conditions.
“Platinum on carbon supports is important in many applications in the chemical industry including in energy sources such as fuel cells and is an informative model system more generally,” noted Boyes.
