What Challenges are Associated with Imaging Nanoparticles?
Imaging nanoparticles presents several challenges:
- Resolution Limits: Traditional optical microscopes cannot resolve features smaller than about 200 nm due to the diffraction limit of light. Electron and scanning probe microscopes are required for higher resolution.
- Sample Preparation: Preparing nanoparticles for imaging without altering their structure or properties can be difficult. For instance, TEM samples must be extremely thin, which can be challenging to achieve without damaging the nanoparticles.
- Environmental Sensitivity: Some nanoparticles are sensitive to the electron beam or vacuum conditions in TEM and SEM, which can cause them to degrade or change during imaging.
