Microscope

Elemental detection range extended for tabletop microscope

Hitachi has a new, custom designed Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (EDS) for their TM-1000 Tabletop Microscope that now extends the range of lighter elements that can be detected from Sodium Na (Z 11) down to Boron B (Z 5). Qualitative and quantitative measurements can be made using the new QUANTAX 50 from Bruker on the full range of elements from Boron B (Z 5) up to Americium Am (Z 95)

Their QUANTAX 50 features a customized XFlash® silicon drift (SDD) detector and a signal processing unit fully integrated into the microscope body. Easy-to use software also integrates seamlessly with the TM-1000 control software. Installation and user training can be completed within one hour.

The SDD features a large active detector area of 30 mm2 with excellent energy resolution of <135 eV for the Mn Kα line and <154 eV for Cu Kα. No liquid nitrogen or other external cooling agents are needed for the detector.

The versatile software allows spectrum acquisition with automatic element identification. Reliable quantitative methodology gives measurements as At.% or Wt.%. Two spectra can be displayed for comparison and spectra and images can be displayed simultaneously. Results can be displayed graphically or in a table, and a single click report facility yields a printed output or export of results and spectra to Microsoft® Word.

The improvement in X-ray Microanalytical capability enhances the TM-1000, complementing its powerful imaging and experimental capabilities and ensures the Hitachi TM-1000 remains the most powerful and flexible tabletop microscope available on the market.