7. Electron Microscopy

Abstract

Publisher Summary This chapter presents a discussion on fundamentals of electron microscopy, and its applications in polymer science. The electron microscope has been shown to be an indispensable investigative tool. Detailed examination of discrete polymer single crystals is possible only with the electron microscope. Studies of these simplest of polymeric forms have led to an understanding of the fundamental crystallization mechanisms of polymers. Complementary techniques, such as low-angle X-ray diffractions, provided insight, however, it was the selected-area and small-angle electron diffraction along with dark- and bright-field imaging that has lead to present day picture of crystalline polymers. This chapter provides a detailed treatment of instrumental design and operational considerations in electron microscopy. The focus is on specialized microscopy techniques, including scanning-transmission electron microscopy, scanning-electron microscopy, and energy-loss electron microscopy. The term electron microscopy used, refers to work performed on the instrument commonly called the conventional transmission electron microscope. The discussion is concentrated on this type of instrument because of its widespread use, and because knowledge of its operation is basic to a study of the new generation of instruments. The chapter examines specific applications in polymer science that demonstrate the capability of the instrument.