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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 01 February 2011
The present paper discusses two different active influences of an electron beam on a nanosize sample.
The first observed influence is the formation of nanoparticle agglomerates due to the beam charge. This can be likened to the formation of fine sand and it enables the determination of grain magnitude of the given nanomaterial. This also enables to get a clear picture of the sample, which is latent at first due to the coating of nanoparticles and their agglomerates. For example, removal of nanopowder coatings has enabled for the first time to find self - assembling systems in a shape of double chain spatial helixes from inorganic particles (as DNA).
The second type of influence is related to transformations, which distort the sample. Transformation of amorphous particles of metal into a crystalline state by means of local heating is the one of most importance.
Growth of thread-shaped hollow and solid nanowhiskers from nanoparticles and their further disintegration to a great number of small crystals under influence of electron beam in the chamber of electron microscope was observed. Therefore it can be confirmed that it is necessary to use an electron microscope with special precautionary measures, when working with nanoamorphous metals.