Electron Probe Microanalysis Training Course

(Contact hours - Lectures, 4hrs; Labs 6-8 hours - Lab times will be advised to attendees before the course)

Researchers, PhD and Honours students in the earth, physical or biological sciences intending to obtain qualitative or quantitative (Z>11) chemical information from bulk samples (SEM) using Energy Dispersive x-ray analysis systems (EDS) at the UWA Centre for Microscopy, Characterisation and Analysis (or other EPMA facilities). This course is a pre-requisite for workshops in more advanced microprobe analysis techniques.

Lectures will cover: (Day 1) the theory of x-ray generation by electron bombardment of a sample; the detection of x-rays by Energy Dispersive Spectrometers; and qualitative microanalysis. (Day 2) standards-based quantitative EDS microanalysis; detection limits, precision and accuracy; and methods for assessment of data quality. Practical sessions, in groups of 2-3, will introduce the operation of the Oxford Instruments Link ISIS analysis systems mounted on the SEMs in the CMCA, for both qualitative and quantitative microanalysis. The theory and practice of EPMA will be reinforced through bench practical sessions. Each attendee will have the opportunity to discuss their research project with a member of Centre staff.

Successful completion of the basic SEM training course is a pre-requisite for the EPMA course.

Is Energy Dispersive EPMA the right technique for you?

* It provides qualitative chemical information (elements present) for elements with Z>4
* It provides quantitative chemical compositions for major and minor (>1 wt %) elements with Z>10
* It provides chemical information for phases within multiphase samples, not the bulk composition
* It samples volumes on the order of 1-5 um across
* Samples need to be flat and polished for quantitative analysis
* It is a non-destructive technique, although some samples may be damaged by bombardment with the electron beam

Attendees will learn basic EPMA operation skills including -

* How to calibrate the EDS detector
* Qualitative microanalysis (identification of elements present in the sample)
* The effects of instrument operating parameters and sample preparation on x-ray generation and detection
* Quantitative microanalysis for elements with Z>10 (plus oxygen)
* Qualitative x-ray element mapping
* Basic sample requirements for EPMA (but not sample preparation methods)

More advanced topics such as wavelength dispersive x-ray microanalysis (WDS), analytical electron microscopy (EDS analysis of thin films in the TEM), and light-element (Z<10) x-ray microanalysis are not included in this course. Detailed information on sample preparation techniques in the physical and biological sciences is not included.

Copies of lecture notes and supporting documentation are provided as a downloadable file available one week prior to the start of the course. Many additional materials can be found in the UWA library.

The following books are highly recommended -

* Goldstein, J. et al, 2003. Scanning Electron Microscopy and X-Ray Microanalysis 3rd Ed. Kluwer Academic/Plenum Publishers.
* Reed, S.J.B., 2005. Electron Microprobe Analysis and Scanning Electron Microscopy in Geology 2nd Ed. Cambridge University Press.

The library also houses a set of DVD recordings of microscopy workshops run by the Microscopy Society of America. Anyone planning to use microscopy in their research will find these useful for both basic and advanced information.

Workshops on more advanced microanalysis techniques are organised mid-year or when there is sufficient demand. Current workshops include (follow the links for more details and to register interest in a workshop) -

* Wavelength dispersive electron microprobe analysis (WDS);
* Analytical electron microscopy (qualitative and quantitative EDS analysis of thin-film samples in the TEM);
* Light-element x-ray microanalysis.

A short written test will assess attendees understanding of the theory underlying the technique of electron microprobe analysis. Practical assessment will take place during the training labs on the instruments and through a final assignment involving image acquisition, and qualitative and quantitative microanalysis, of an 'unknown' sample.

Places on this course are available to students and researchers with a demonstrated need for access to EPMA facilities.

REGISTRATION FOR THIS COURSE IS NOW OPEN - TO ENROL CLICK HERE

ENROLMENTS CLOSE 7 NOVEMBER 2008

Places are limited and preference will be given to registered CMCA Users. Your place will be confirmed in advance of the next scheduled workshop. To find out about becoming a CMCA User contact the CMCA Manager, Jeanette Hatch.

Attendance is free for UWA and Curtin staff and students who are registered users. For UWA non-registered users and Murdoch and Edith Cowan people (NCC Partners) this course is $495 (inc. GST). All other interested participants will be allocated a place only if maximum numbers are not reached, and a cost of $898 (inc. GST) will apply. Any enrollee who fails to cancel their attendance more than 24h in advance will be charged a $55 (inc. GST) no show fee.