Cryogenic Transmission Electron Microscopy (Cryo-TEM)

global foundries amd

Cryo-TEM is a form of Transmission Electron Microscopy in which the polymer and nano-crystal samples are kept at cryogenic conditions, minimizing radiation damage and preventing water crystallization. It is used in structural biology for studying biomolecules in their hydrated state. Infinita Lab, USA enables our clients in the USA and worldwide to do the Cryo-TEM test at our network testing labs.


  

Cryogenic Transmission Electron Microscopy

Cryogenic Transmission Electron Microscopy (Cryo-TEM) is a technique that uses a focused high energy electron beam transmitted through a thin (~ 50-100 nm) sample under cryogenic conditions, to produce highly magnified images (resolutions of ~4 A0) on a fluorescent screen or digital imaging system. 

Cryo-TEM was originally developed for the high-resolution structure determination of biomolecules in solution, but is also being extended to novel applications in material sciences, including soft polymers and nano-crystals. Biomolecules can be observed in their native hydrated states by rapid cooling that arrests any movement during the freezing process. To achieve this, the aqueous sample is plunged into liquid Ethane, to prevent crystallization of water. This retains the water in amorphous form (vitreous water). Temperatures can go down to as low as 4 K and liquid Nitrogen or Liquid helium can also be used for cooling, instead of Ethane. Observing sensitive biomolecules at cryogenic temperatures also prevents radiation damage that can occur due to the high energy electron beam.

Cryo-TEM is a valuable research tool in various biological fields and is also being increasingly used in other industries dealing with novel materials.

Common Uses of Cryogenic Transmission Electron Microscopy (Cryo-TEM)

  • Research at molecular level in botany, biotechnology and zoology
  • Research and development of next generation soft polymers
  • Studies of protein structures
  • Studies of cell structure and organelles as well as macromolecules complexes
  • Studies on nano-crystals

Advantages of Cryogenic Transmission Electron Microscopy (Cryo-TEM)

  • Biomolecules can be studied in their natural hydrated state
  • Minimizes radiation damage to sensitive samples
  • Requires very small samples

Limitations of Cryogenic Transmission Electron Microscopy (Cryo-TEM)

  • Very low signal to noise ratio leading to lack of contrast, especially when viewing biological macromolecules
  • Sample preparation and mounting procedure takes time

Industrial Applications of Cryogenic Transmission Electron Microscopy (Cryo-TEM)

  • Research and development tool in biology, medicine and next generation soft Polymer materials
Need help or have a question?
Case Study In-depth examination of genuine material testing solutions
Dopant and ultra-low concentration elemental analysis using Scanning…

EELS analysis of gate and channel is performed on fin field-effect transistors (finFETs). Scanning transmission electron…

Learn More
Analysis of degradation of PVC pipe using Fourier…

FTIR analysis is used to study the migration and leaching of phthalate plasticizers from p-PVCs. Phthalate…

Learn More
Nano-scale roughness measurement of Si-wafers by Atomic Force…

Nano-scale surface roughness is a critical parameter in fabricated thin-films that are used in optics, solar…

Learn More
See all Case Study

Looking for Material Testing?

We have already delivered 10000+ Material Test results to top companies

    Free Consultation? - Talk to our experts

    (888) 878-3090

    FAQs on Cryogenic Transmission Electron Microscopy (Cryo-TEM)

    What is the difference between TEM and cryo TEM?

    The main difference between cryo-EM and TEM is that in cryo-EM the specimen is prepared by using a flash or jet freezing of liquid or suspension. This enables the specimen to be viewed under the microscope without the need for fixating or straining aids. In TEM, the specimen is fixed in place by chemical fixation or staining agents.

    How does cryogenic electron microscopy work?

    Cryogenic Transmission Electron Microscopy (Cryo-TEM) is a technique that uses a focused high energy electron beam transmitted through a thin (~ 50-100 nm) sample under cryogenic conditions, to produce highly magnified images (resolutions of ~4 A0) on a fluorescent screen or digital imaging system.

    What is cryo-TEM used for?

    Common Uses of Cryogenic Transmission Electron Microscopy (Cryo-TEM)

    o Research at the molecular level in botany, biotechnology, and zoology.
    o Research and development of next generation soft polymers.
    o Studies of protein structures.
    o Studies of cell structure and organelles as well as macromolecule complexes.
    o Studies on nano-crystals.

    Why is cryo-EM better than EM?

    Conventional EM techniques require the specimen to undergo chemical fixation, staining, and dehydration. This is not the case in cryo-EM, where the specimen is preserved in its natural hydrated state.

    Send us a request

      Process for testing
      •  
        STEP 01

        You share material and testing requirements with us

      •  
        STEP 02

        You ship your sample to us or arrange for us to pick it up.

      •  
        STEP 03

        We deliver the test report to your email.

        Let’s work together!

        Share your testing requirements with us and we will be happy to assist you.

        ddd Just share your testing requirements and leave the rest on us!
        • Quick Turnaround and Hasslefree process
        • Confidentiality Guarantee
        • Free, No-obligation Consultation
        • 100% Customer Satisfaction

          ddd

          Let us combine our capabilities to achieve success!!

            idea icon
            Want to connect with an expert before you leave?