Consistently produces high-quality TEM specimens
The Model 1010 Ion Mill is a tabletop, PC-controlled precision
milling and polishing system for creating high-quality TEM
specimens with large electron transparent areas. It is fully
programmable and easy to use. The Model 1010 incorporates
two independently adjustable, variable energy hollow anode
discharge (HAD) ion sources, liquid nitrogen specimen cooling,
0° to 45° milling angles, automatic gas control, and an oil-free
vacuum system for ultra-clean specimen processing.
Thinning to electron transparency
Ion milling is used on physical science specimens to reduce
their thickness to electron transparency. Inert gas, typically
argon, is ionized and then accelerated toward the specimen
surface. By means of momentum transfer, the impinging ions
sputter material from the specimen at a controlled rate. Liquid
nitrogen cooling of the specimen stage is highly effective
in eliminating heat-induced artifacts.
Programmable, automatic operation
The fully programmable Model 1010 operates with minimal user
intervention. When operated at the upper energy range, rapid
milling occurs even at low milling angles. When operated at
low voltage and current, material is gently removed from the
specimen. In addition to full specimen rotation, the programmable
rocking angle control is ideally suited for preparing cross-section
(XTEM) specimens. The ion milling process can be automatically
terminated by temperature, by elapsed time, or by a laser
photodetection system.
Enhanced viewing
Specimens can be imaged during the milling process with either
a stereo microscope or a high-magnification microscope and
CCD camera. Viewing is enhanced by independently controlled
transmitted and reflected illumination.
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