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The Preparation of Fine Particulate for Electron Microscopy Investigations Using Dental Amalgam

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  16 February 2011

L. S. Chumbley
Affiliation:
Ames Laboratory, 214 Wilhelm, Ames, IA 50011
F. C. Laabs
Affiliation:
Ames Laboratory, 214 Wilhelm, Ames, IA 50011
S. C. Sanders
Affiliation:
Ames Laboratory, 214 Wilhelm, Ames, IA 50011
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Abstract

Samples of high Tc superconductors and metal powders have been prepared for Scanning and Transmission Electron Microscopy examination by a novel method. Dental amalgam, commonly used for filling cavities in teeth by dentists, has been used as a binding agent to hold the sample particulate together during sample preparation. The amalgam was pressed into a small rod 3 mmn in diameter and samples were prepared by cutting slices from the rod followed by mechanical grinding and ion milling to perforation. This technique is extremely easy and offers several advantages over other preparation methods. Experiments revealed difficulties due to preferential sputtering yield, but generally these could be overcome and good thermal and electrical properties of the amalgam partially offset the former inconveniences. It should be possible to use this technique for any number of materials, including ceramic materials and small non-spherical particulate.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 1990

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References

REFERENCES

1. Mixing instructions from Kerr USA, manufacturer of the amalgam used in this study.Google Scholar
2. Binary Alloy Phase Diagrams, edited by Massalski, T.B., Murray, J.L., Bennett, L.H., and Baker, H., (ASM publication, Metals Park, 1986)Google Scholar