In-situ characterization of non-aqueous nano-dispersion systems by freeze-etching TEM and comparative study with laser scattering method

Abstract

In-situ characterization of non-aqueous nano-dispersion systems(NANDS) by freeze-etching transmission electron microscope (FETEM) was reported. To improve just-for-once successive rate of specimen preparation and get good characterization results, an improving specimen preparation method of freezing etching was developed. Size, distribution and morphology of NANDS were directly visualized. Some information of particle dispersion feature and particle density can also be obtained. Reproductivity of the FETEM characterization is excellent. Comparing with laser scattering method, which is liable to give positive error especially for small size particle anchoring disperser, FETEM characterization can give more accurate measurement of particle size. Moreover, FETEM can give dispersion feature of nanoparticle in non-aqueous medium.

Keywords

non-aqueous nano-dispersion system / dispersion state / in-situ characterization / freeze-etching / laser scattering method

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