Scanning Electron Microscope

The Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) project ran from 2014 - 2022, thanks to the generosity of Alberta Innovates and NRC-Nano (formerly NINT).

Nanotechnology is a fascinating field of research and development. Our program involved the use of a SEM which was equipped with an Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometer that could do elemental analysis of samples.This project encouraged schools to participate in inquiry-based projects with their students and the microscope. As a result, the microscope would typically visit schools for several days, and a trained facilitator would help students use the SEM and interpret the results.

For more information on lesson ideas related to the SEM, please see the "Teacher Resources" Tab and sort by items tagged "Scanning Electron Microscope".  To learn more about how samples were prepared, please click here.