Application of High-Resolution Electron Microscopy

Abstract

On the basis of the discussions in Chaps. 1 and 2, we now consider how to observe and interpret high-resolution images, with plenty of typical examples. In Sect. 3.1, high-resolution images of various structural defects are presented and explained. X-ray diffraction and neutron diffraction provide accurate structural information averaged throughout a crystal, whereas the advantage of high-resolution electron microscopy over the diffraction methods is that it provides direct information in real space of structural defects which are localized in crystals. High-resolution electron microscopy of lattice defects such as dislocations, interfaces, and surfaces, and also structural defects in non-stoichiometric compounds are presented in this section. Section 3.2 considers the appHcation of high-resolution electron microscopy to various advanced materials such as ceramics and high-Tc superconductors. Structural changes in alloys due to heat treatment and slight compositional changes, and the characteristic structural features of quasicrystals are also explained in detail.