High-quality SEM and TEM imaging is frequently hampered by hydrocarbon contamination. These carbon-based residues, which can be added during sample preparation or accumulated during imaging, can obfuscate minute features, skew data, and waste time.
Image Credit: Hitachi High-Tech Europe
Overview
The Hitachi ZoneSEM II and ZoneTEM II UV-based Sample Cleaners offer a safe, efficient, and chemical-free solution. These compact devices use low-energy UV light and activated oxygen to gently remove contaminants, ensuring that delicate structures and surface properties remain intact.
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Chemical- and gas-free UV cleaning
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Rapid, non-destructive hydrocarbon removal
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Touchscreen operation with recipe storage for consistency
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Dual functionality: sample cleaning and storage in one system
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Vacuum-controlled process adaptable to diverse sample types
Features and Benefits
Gentle, Chemical-Free Cleaning
The ZoneSEM II and ZoneTEM II cleaners use UV lamps to break down hydrocarbon bonds. With oxygen present, the UV light generates ozone and reactive oxygen species, which oxidize the hydrocarbons into volatile compounds such as CO2 and H2O. This process safely removes contaminants without requiring solvents, reagents, or external gas supplies.
Image Credit: Hitachi High-Tech Europe
Vacuum-Controlled Process for Sample Safety
The integrated pump offers an adjustable vacuum, allowing users to control the cleaning intensity and optimize the process for their specific sample.
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Easy to Use, Easy to Repeat
An intuitive touchscreen interface streamlines protocol setup and execution, with recipe memory functionality allowing process parameters to be stored and retrieved for consistent, repeatable performance.
Image Credit: Hitachi High-Tech Europe
Cleaning and Storage in One
The ZoneSEM II and ZoneTEM II serve a dual purpose as sample cleaners and storage units. This helps prevent re-contamination and minimizes sample outgassing before imaging. The ZoneSEM II is specifically designed to work with Hitachi holders.
Image Credit: Hitachi High-Tech Europe
Compact, Lab-Friendly Design
With a compact desktop footprint, quiet operation, and no requirement for gas hookups or chemical waste management, ZONE sample cleaners integrate seamlessly into any laboratory environment.
Image Credit: Hitachi High-Tech Europe
Applications
ITO thin film on glass printed circuit board before and after ZoneSEM II cleaning. Image Credit: Hitachi High-Tech Europe
CdSe quantum dot imaged before and after ZoneTEM II cleaning. Image Credit: Hitachi High-Tech Europe
EDS mapping image of Au particles on carbon before and after ZoneSEM II cleaning. Image Credit: Hitachi High-Tech Europe