TEM Micro-Grid Using Carbon Nanotube Film
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Solution Overview
Problem
Metal mesh nets used in transmission electron microscopes contain impurities like metal oxide, which interfere with sample component analysis, reducing the accuracy of observations.
Innovation Solution
A transmission electron microscope micro-grid based on a sheet-shaped carbon nanotube structure secured on a support ring, eliminating the need for metal mesh nets by using adhesives, Van der Waals attractive forces, or mechanical means for securement, and utilizing methods like laser cutting for fabrication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metal mesh nets are used as the base structure for micro-grids, then mechanical strength and structural stability are improved, but impurities such as metal oxide cause interference in sample component analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the harmful metal mesh net from the micro-grid structure, retaining only the essential support function. By eliminating the metal mesh net that causes impurity interference, the invention uses alternative support structures (flanged support ring, adhesive layers) that do not introduce harmful contaminants into the sample analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different material properties to different parts of the micro-grid structure. The support ring uses metal or ceramic materials for mechanical strength, while the micro-grid itself uses pure carbon nanotube materials for sample analysis. This local differentiation allows each component to have optimal properties for its specific function without compromising the other.
2Manufacturing precision
If traditional manufacturing methods with organic porous membranes and evaporation deposition are used, then micro-grid structure is formed, but the process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex evaporation deposition process with a mechanical assembly approach. Instead of using thermal evaporation to deposit carbon films, the invention uses mechanical means to assemble carbon nanotube structures onto support rings, significantly simplifying the manufacturing process and improving production efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the micro-grid manufacturing into separate, independent components (support ring, flanges, carbon nanotube micro-grid) that can be manufactured separately and then assembled. This segmentation allows for parallel production of components and simplifies the overall manufacturing process, improving productivity while maintaining structural precision.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design eliminates interference from metal mesh nets, enhancing the accuracy of transmission electron microscopy by providing a pure carbon nanotube structure for sample analysis and allowing for simple, fast, and scalable production.
Implementation Method 1
A transmission electron microscope micro-grid based on a sheet-shaped carbon nanotube structure secured on a support ring, eliminating the need for metal mesh nets by using adhesives, Van der Waals attractive forces, or mechanical means for securement
Data Source
AI summary
A transmission electron microscope micro-grid includes a support ring and a sheet-shaped carbon nanotube structure. The support ring has a through hole defined therein. The sheet-shaped carbon nanotube structure has a peripheral edge secured on the support ring and a central area suspended above the through hole. The sheet-shaped carbon nanotube structure includes at least one linear carbon nanotube structure or at least one carbon nanotube film.