In-Situ Studies of Copper Nanoparticles Using a Novel Tandem Ultra-High Vacuum Particle Production Chamber Transmission Electron Microscope

Abstract

Nanophase materials, a compaction of nano-particles, are arguably a new phase of matter whose high grain-boundary-to-volume ratio leads to new and enhanced material properties. Previously, these materials have been difficult to study because of their sensitivity to contaminating atmospheres. We have built a novel apparatus, an ultra-clean nano-particle production chamber connected directly to a ultra-high vacuum transmission electron microscope (UHVTEM), which allows in-situ TEM study of various nano-particle phenomena without exposure to contaminating atmospheres. Using this apparatus, we have shown specific contaminants' effects on copper nano-particle growth mechanics, morphology, and sintering. Our findings contribute significantly to our understanding of nano-particles and shed light on how to approach the ideal nanophase material.