3D Microscopy-High Resolution Laboratory

    * EQUIPTMENT:

LEICA DCM8 High Resolution 3D Microscope with Interferometry and Profilometry

The Non-Destructive Techniques Laboratory has a high-resolution 3D microscope LEICA DCM8 with Interferometry and Profilometry ideal for obtaining images with maximum contrast and for measuring 3D topographies on polished and rough surfaces. Using this technique, the sample is scanned vertically in a series of planes, so that each point on the observed surface goes through the focus. The height of the surface in each pixel is obtained, detecting the peak of the axial response with nanometric resolution.

It has White Light Interferometry (VSI), Phase Shift Interferometry (PSI) and Extended PSI Interferometry (ePSI).

In addition, the laboratory has a software for analysis and measurement of 2D-3D distances, angles, perimeters, areas, volumes, topographic heights and profilometry.

* SESSIONS:

In the 3D-High resolution microscopy sessions, it is possible to work with or without a specialist technician, in self-service mode, after prior training by the laboratory staff.

Sessions WITH technical assistance

The laboratory technicians try to adjust the schedule and needs of the different working groups. For this, sessions of different durations and schedules have been prepared to add more versatility and adjustment to the needs of the users with the laboratory’s agenda.

Sessions WITHOUT technical assistance

For a more efficient working, it is advisable not to exceed 6 hours of use per week and per person. If you need to use the service for a longer time, it may be extended after informing the service technicians, who will inform you about the availability of the equipment. In case of saturation of the service, users will be notified in advance of the reduction in the maximum reservation time.

User engagement

The users who are going to manage the equipment by themselves will have the first assisted session and, in the following sessions, they will be advised and helped by the technical personnel assigned to the service until they acquire autonomy in the development of the work. In case of any difficulties arising during the non-assisted session with the equipment, the laboratory technicians will be available to advise and to solve the problem. The users will notify the technical staff of any incidents that may have occurred during the handling of the equipment, especially those that may require the repair or maintenance of the equipment. All this will avoid inconveniences for users who want to use the equipment in the next session.

The more delicate routines and operations MUST be performed by laboratory technicians. Third party training by other users is neither advisable nor desirable.

The computer's hard drive is cleaned periodically every month. Users are advised to save their data on their external hard drive or pen drive once the session is over.

* CONDITIONS OF DELIVERY OF SAMPLES AND RESULTS

Since the users are normally present in the laboratory (see the covid-19 action plan of the analysis Service by Non-Destructive Techniques), at the end of the session they will take their samples and the results obtained. When the user requests a routine session that the technicians can carry out without his presence, and always in agreement with him, the results, the report (if he requests it) and the samples will be sent to him.

* PREPARATION OF THE SAMPLES

The samples for 3D microscopy do not require any preparation, although it is advisable to check the status of the samples with the specialist technician.

* PRINCIPLES OF THE TECHNIQUE

It is ideal for obtaining images with the highest contrast and for measuring 3D topographies on polished and rough surfaces.

It has White Light Interferometry (VSI), Phase Shift Interferometry (PSI) and Extended PSI Interferometry (ePSI).

It has a software for analysis and measurement in 2D-3D distances, angles, perimeters, areas, volumes, topographic heights, and profilometry.