Comparative study of a block copolymer morphology by transmission electron microscopy and scanning force microscopy

J Microsc. 2002 Jan;205(Pt 1):106-8. doi: 10.1046/j.0022-2720.2001.00975.x.

Abstract

Using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning force microscopy (SFM) together, it was possible to verify important structural features of a nanostructured bulk material such as the kp-morphology in an ABC triblock copolymer. By applying suitable imaging techniques during the SFM measurements it was possible to determine the morphology without additional manipulation steps in between. In comparison, TEM investigations on this type of material usually require selective staining procedures prior to the measurement. Also electron beam damage is often encountered during TEM measurements especially if components such as poly(methacrylates) are present. In contrast, SFM measurements can be assumed not to significantly change the phase dimensions of the components.