Development of new bio-electron microscope that uses DLC film

We developed a new Bio-Electron Microscope that uses DLC film as a barrier separating the electron beam source and the sample holder. Thus, the electron beam source can be set up in a vacuum container while the sample for observation is under atmospheric pressure. For such a purpose, a thin film that is penetrable by electrons is needed. In addition, it needs to be strong enough to endure the atmospheric pressure, and medically safe. This research clarified that DLC film was the best film for this purpose. The DLC film could endure atmospheric pressure when it is a few μm thick and 200 µm × 200 µm in area. This film was sufficiently transparent to the electron beam, and succeeded in making an image of the sample. These characteristic properties are quite desirable in an electron microscope. Moreover, the vacuum system is unnecessary, because the electron beam scans the sample through air. Thus, it is expected that this device will make it possible not only to observe living body cells, but also to extend the applicability of existing electron microscopes.