Manipulation of Nano-Scale Objects Using High-Resolution, Low-Dose Transmission Electron Microscopy
Introduction
There is a constant demand for nanostructures in the fields of research and commercial enterprise. At present, there is an express need for the capability to synthesize a product while simultaneously observing its fabrication. Available instruments for nanofabrication and manipulation do not allow for such real-time observation.
Invention Description
This technology encompasses a new type of microscopy that provides for extreme visualization and the manipulation of single-polymer chains in real-time while imaging them in the transmission electron microscope (TEM). The capability to synthesize a product while simultaneously observing its fabrication is a first. Additionally, this invention provides for much greater control for the purpose of manipulation and synthesis of nanomaterials from a variety of sources. The low-dose electron beam allows nanofabrication of significantly smaller structures from polymeric materials. The capability to manipulate, synthesize, and analyze a material simultaneously changes the TEM's role in research development and the production of a variety of scientific and commercial products.
Benefits
- Provides for significantly smaller, nanometer-sized fabrication
- Nanofabrication can proceed from a variety of materials including biological and inorganic
- Low-dose electron beams do not destroy the samples
Features
- Real-time monitoring
- Differential control
- Formation of nanopatterns through the crystallization of uranyl acetate using an electron beam
Market Potential/Applications
The world microscopy market is currently over $1.5 billion and is expected to rise steadily as new applications in medical imaging and nanotechnology are explored. Microscopes (such as this) used in the manipulation of materials could account for sales upwards of $775 million over the next two years.
Development Stage
Lab/bench prototype completed.
IP Status
Two U.S. Patent Applications filed
UT Researcher
- R. Malcolm Brown, Jr., Ph. D., Department of Molecular Biology, The University of Texas at Austin
For further information please contact
University os texas,
Austin, USA
Website : www.otc.utexas.edu
