Microanalysis and Microscopy: Capabilities
Optical Microscopy
We have a wide array of optical microscopes that are used to visualize samples at lower magnifications. Using various lighting conditions, our scientists can examine bulk samples using reflected light, can pass light through a thin sample to see how it transmits light, and can use other types of light conditions and angled light to optimize the ability to see very fine morphological details. Stereomicroscopes use reflected light at a wide range of magnifications to reveal surface features and to yield a three-dimensional view of samples such as mineralogical material, biological material, pharmaceutical samples, and others. Transmitted light microscopes (phase contrast, polarized light, and fluorescence) are used to make mineralogical identifications, to conduct particle size distribution analysis, and to view very fine particles or biological structures. Both stereomicroscopes and transmitted light microscopes have digital image capability for rapid capture of high-quality images, and digital video capability. Optical microscopy is often used in conjunction with other microscopy methods, because different instruments, different light conditions, and different magnifications reveal more about a sample than one independent analytical procedure.
Contact: Todd Ennis