Scanning Electron Microscopy and X-ray Microanalysis

A course to familiarize undergraduate students with the principles and practices of scanning electron microscopy and x-ray microanalyses. The course content will focus on the SEM and its modes of operation, electron beam-specimen interactions, image formation, generation of x-rays, x-ray spectral measurement, and qualitative and quantitative x-ray analyses. The lecture will present the historical and theoretical backgrounds to these integrated topics, and the laboratory will provide hands-on experiences for biological, materials, and polymer samples. The designed experiments will allow students to apply the techniques learned in class to realistic systems, and the laboratory reports will help students develop the skill in scientific and technical writing. This course is directed toward advanced biology/chemistry students. Prerequisites: Permission of instructor.

Cross-listed as: BIO 443, CHM 443