Comparisons of Techniques - Sample Preparation Topic for Transmission Electron Microscopy - page 221

Comparison discussion : In both of these examples, the tripod polishing technique
combined with ion milling yields the best results on the intrinsic microstruc-
ture. However, although ultramicrotomy presents artifacts resulting in undulations
and compression, this technique preserves the chemical information. Electrolytic
thinning is harmful in this case (Figs. 8.37, 8.38, 8.39, and 8.40) .
Fig. 8.37 Bright-field TEM
image of a ZrNi planar view
prepared using electrolytic
thinning, showing the
appearance of an unstable
phase causing the formation
of many networks of twins.
( Nathalie Michel, CNRS,
LEMHE, Orsay )
Fig. 8.38 Bright-field TEM
image of a ZrNi planar view
prepared using tripod
polishing mechanical
thinning followed by ionic
thinning (PIPS), showing the
intrinsic microstructure of the
metallic alloy. ( Nathalie
Michel, CNRS, LEMHE,
Orsay )