Acquisition of a Transfer Module for the Transport of Air Sensitive Specimens in the Scanning Electron Microscopes (RPA Pilot / Seed Project)

On behalf of the Electron Microscopy Center (EMC, College of Engineering), the PI is proposing the acquisition of a transfer module from Kammrath & Weiss. This new accessory will enable the characterization of advanced materials that are sensitive to air and/or moisture, such as battery materials, perovskites or organic electronics, in the scanning electron microscopes. Currently, these samples cannot be properly analyzed at the EMC, as the standard sample loading procedures involve exposure to ambient air. The proposed transfer module, working in conjunction with the glovebox workstation described by the PI in a separate, complementary proposal, will unlock air/humidity-free transfer capability for which multiple groups at the University have already expressed interest and support. The proposed transfer module will be available at the EMC and made fully accessible to all users across campus, in the same manner as the other characterization equipment at the center. Maintenance and user training will be conducted by existing EMC staff members. This new capability will support research in the development and characterization of air-sensitive materials and devices for energy applications, and for researchers in many more fields. It will work in tandem with the proposed glovebox and the scanning electron microscopes already in place at the EMC, and will strengthen collaboration prospects and engagement with local industrial partners. In addition to this transfer module, the PI is submitting a separate proposal for the acquisition of a glovebox enabling sample mounting without exposure to air/humidity, prior to transfer in the electron microscope.