Smart Grids™ represent the next step in TEM grids for sample preparation. These grids are a new revolutionary tool for enhanced visualization at the nanoscale. By creating a functionalized surface, the grid surface itself now becomes part of the sample preparation process. This allows Smart Grids™ the ability to understand function and form at the nanoscale level with applications ranging from materials to life sciences to semiconductor processing.
Smart Grids™ are micromachined from ultrathin silicon wafers to provide the greatest flexibility in grid geometry and configuration. The 3 mm octagon grids have a square window size of 100x100 µm. These grids are machined with a single rectangular window that serves as an index mark for reproducible imaging. Smart Grids™ employ thermally grown SiO2 membrane windows that are available with a standard window thickness of 40 nm. The 40 nm windows are the most generally applicable showing excellent image resolution with minimal background. The membrane windows are robust to a variety of chemical and thermal processing treatments provided they are properly handled. Other thickness and styles are anticipated to be added in the near future.
The Smart Grids™ product line can provide a unique opportunity to image the world of molecular-scale engineering. Smart Grids are more than a replacement grid for transmission electron microscopy (TEM); they can change the way electron microscopy is used and can have wide application for multiple techniques for analytical characterization.
Smart Grids™ are available in four surface chemistries
| Surface Chemistry | Potential Applications |
| Hydroxyl | Nanomaterials, Life Sciences, Semiconductors |
| Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) | Life Sciences |
| Amine | Nanomaterials, Life Sciences |
| Hydrophobic | Carbon nanotubes, Quantum Dots, Nanomaterials |
Smart Grids™ come in packages of 10. The functionalized surface does weaken over time and it is suggested that these grids be used within a three-month period after purchase. For this reason, only the most common type grids are stocked, and most are special ordered. Typical delivery is two to three weeks from time of order.
A note on packaging and handling of Smart Grids™
Custom orders
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