Scanning Electron Microscope

CMASTE is pleased to announce the return of the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) project! Thanks to the generosity of Alberta Innovates and NRC-Nano (formerly NINT) the microscope will continue to visit schools for the next two years.

Nanotechnology is an emerging field of research and development that teachers and students want to learn more. Our program involves the use of a SEM. The SEM is equipped with an Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometer that can do elemental analysis of samples. To learn more about sample preparation please click here. This project is encourages schools to participate in inquiry-based projects with their students and the microscope. As a result, the microscope would typically visit your school for several days, and a trained facilitator would help your students use the microscope and interpret the results.

CMASTE are looking for schools that have students use the SEM for student-generated research ideas and make maximum use of the SEM while visiting (for example, have other students see presentations of the SEM when it is not in use for inquiry projects at the school). For more information on project and lesson ideas, please see the Nanotechnology and Nanoscience Resources tab above.