Direct observation of liquid using Aqua Cover method!
MP2025-03
Introduction
As SEMs become more multifunctional, various observation methods for different samples have been established. Here, we introduce the Aqua Cover method, which allows direct observation of liquid water itself and samples containing moisture using a general-purpose SEM, the JSM-IT510, along with examples of such observations.
Drying process of knit containing moisture - In case of an optical microscope -
An optical microscope is convenient for observing the drying process of fabric, but it is difficult to distinguish water.
Then, how about using an SEM?
Observation of water in a liquid state using an SEM
Typical phase diagram of water |
Water droplet on a lotus leaf (colorized) |
Procedure of Aqua Cover Method
*Pre-evacuation chamber (LLC) is required.
Observation example of drying process of fabric containing water
Use of Aqua Cover method enables observation of moisture specimen by utilizing high spatial resolution and deep focal depth of SEMs.
Summary
By using the Aqua Cover method, water can be observed while kept in a liquid state. Using JSM-IT510 enables the acquisition of a good S/N signal in a low vacuum environment of 650 Pa. Also, dynamic observation is possible, such as recording how water evaporates as a movie. Recently, evaluation of material contact angle began to be performed with this method.
This time, we introduced the observation example of fabric containing moisture. Compared with an optical microscopic image, the contrast between the fiber and water can be clearly distinguished. Depending on the state of the specimen, adequate observation time of more than 5 minutes can be secured from the observation start to drying.