I’m happy to inform you that the AFM is up and running smoothly and is ready for use. Last Friday, our IT team successfully deployed the computer. This morning, Dr. Leftwich tested the AFM computer by collecting an image in AC mode in the air, and it appears to be functioning properly.
ACMAL is please to extend an invitation to the MTU research community for a Brunch and Learn session with ThermoFisher on April 25, 2024, 9–11 a.m.
Learn how X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) can be used to investigate cutting-edge materials via surface chemistry and the elemental as well as electronic state of atoms.
Why you should attend:
- Expand your understanding of XPS for materials analysis.
- Speak directly with experts about today’s instrumentation and how it can work for you.
Date: April 25
Time: 9–11 a.m.
Location: M&M 610
Alyssa Fabbro is currently an undergraduate student in Michigan Tech’s Biomedical Engineering and pre-health programs. She is involved in Michigan Tech’s EMS and spends her free-time hiking and walking dogs at the humane society. She has always been interested in research and is excited to a part of the ACMAL lab.
Cooper Chiarino is a current student at Michigan Tech majoring in Applied Physics with a minor in Nanoscience. He enjoys helping out around the ACMAL facilities, tutoring physics in the learning center on campus, snowboarding at Mt. Ripley, and mountain biking. After graduating, Cooper plans to continue his education with a graduate degree here at Tech.
The computer updates on the AFM are going well. We will be working with IT early next week on the deploy and hope to have the instrument back up and running soon.
Thanks for your patience,
Liz
You are invited to participate in a visioning session focused on advancing characterization and fabrication capabilities at Michigan Technological University.
April 24, 2024, 12 – 3 p.m.
GLRC 202
The Applied Chemical and Morphological Analysis Laboratory (ACMAL) has received interest regarding the acquisition of a new XPS instrument to upgrade the capabilities of the instrument.
We are seeking faculty members who are interested in supporting this instrument proposal for the purchase.
March 12, 2024, 9 a.m.
M&M 610
If you are unable to attend this meeting, please fill out the survey interest form and we will include you in future discussions.
Just a quick update. The sputter coater stage has been repaired. It is available in sample prep. As always please be gentle working with this instrument. Also, do not put carbon tape directly on the stage.
For those who need TEM grids to prepare TEM specimens, ACMAL does provide some grids. I left a few TEM grid boxes in a small glass desiccator at M&M 631.
There are instructions next to it.
Be aware that there are users’ specimens that are TEM-ready in those grid boxes. So, be mindful when manipulating the grid boxes.
If you need help, please contact Erico Freitas.
I’m pleased to update you on the progress of the Apreo2 installation. Currently, the installation is proceeding smoothly, with the cryo system scheduled for installation next week, followed by the EDS and EBSD systems. Our aim is to have the instrument fully operational for ACMAL staff operation by April. At that time we will be available to perform staff assisted analysis on the instrument. Subsequently, once our staff is proficient and training protocols are established, we will commence user training, likely by mid-June.
If you have a strong interest in utilizing cryo capabilities for your research projects, I encourage you to reach out to me. Additionally, the Apreo2 will have a GIS and heating stages. If you’re interested in utilizing these capabilities for analysis, our staff will be available to assist you.
Impact on the ESEM Capabilities:
It’s important to note that the installation of the EDS and EBSD systems on the Apreo2 will impact the capabilities of the ESEM. Specifically, while the ESEM will retain EDS functionality, the AzTEC Feature will be discontinued, and EBSD capability will no longer be available on the ESEM. However, both these functionalities will be accessible on the Apreo2.
Training:
There have been many questions about training. We will prioritize training for the PIs of the proposal, those requiring EBSD or AzTEC features, and then individuals with prior SEM experience.
Timeline Summary:
- Cryo system installation: Next week
- EDS and EBSD system installation: Following cryo system installation
- Apreo2 operational by ACMAL staff : April
- Commencement of user training: Mid-June
If you have any questions or concerns please let me know.
Best,
Liz