Scanning Electron Microscope (S.E.M) Laboratory

Location: 
Telephone: 
Laboratory Manager:  Dr Andy Thomson
For SEM Bookings: Jim Davy

The laboratory houses a Jeol JSM-6480LV high-performance, Variable Pressure Analytical Scanning Electron Microscope with a high resolution of 3.0nm, along with EDS (Energy Dispersive System) and EBSD (Electron Backscatter Diffraction) using the Oxford Link system.

The low vacuum mode, allows for observation of specimens which cannot be viewed at high vacuum due to excessive water content or due to a non-conductive surface. Its asynchronous five-axis eucentric stage with compeucentric rotation and tilt can accommodate a specimen of up to 8-inches in diameter. Standard automated features include Auto Focus/Auto Stigmator, Auto Gun (saturation and alignment), and Automatic Contrast and Brightness.

Dynamic studies with microstructural information are possible in the SEM, using mechanical testing apparatus and/or heating stages.

The SEM stage modules allows tensile, compression and/or bending tests, with load ranges from less than 2N to 5000N. Software control allows different modes of operation and micro-cracks or other microscopic features can be followed as the test progresses. Heated and heated/cooled grips, or platforms are available for temperature dependent studies and tilted stage and grip options are available for dynamic EBSD studies.

The SEM facilities are available for use by both members of UCL Earth Sciences and external users.

SEM Laboratory Charges

During normal working hours the SEM time is allocated in two blocks of four hours (9am-1pm and 1pm-5pm) and charged at the rates below. The charges cover all costs associated with the SEM (e.g. coating), but excludes computer disks and sample preparation etc.

Members of UCL Earth Sciences may book the SEM per 2 hour session. For non departmental members there is a set charge per 4 hour session.

The current charges for using the SEM Laboratory facilities are as follows:

Charges For SEM Usage: 

Status	Charge
Non Research Grant Funded Research Students/Staff within UCL Earth Sciences	£12 per two hour session
Non Research Grant Funded Academic & Research Staff at UCL	£50 per 4 hour session
Non Research Grant Funded Academic & Research Staff at any UK University	£80 per 4 hour session
Research Grant Funded Academic & Research Staff from UCL or any UK University	£100 per 4 hour session
Commercial Visitors	£250 + VAT per day

Charges For Analytical Usage:

Status	Charge
Non Research Grant Funded Research Students/Staff within UCL Earth Sciences	£50 per 4 hour session
Non Research Grant Funded Academic & Research Staff at UCL	£100 per 4 hour session
Non Research Grant Funded Academic & Research Staff at any UK University	£125 per 4 hour session
Research Grant Funded Academic & Research Staff from UCL or any UK University	£150 per 4 hour session
Commercial Visitors	£500 + VAT per day

BIDDABLE TIME

25 days per year will be allocated for biddable time for new projects.

To make a booking or for further information please contact Jim Davy.