Optical microscopy

Optical microscopy uses visible light and lenses to magnify and image samples, providing a non-destructive way to examine surface features and structures. Optical microscopy is used to investigate surface morphology, grain boundaries, defects, and other structural details at a micrometer scale, with a resolution limit of ~200 nm.

In a typical measurement, several images with varying magnifications are taken to get a good overall view of the sample.

Typical use cases

• Quality control for surface defects

• Microstructure analysis of metals, ceramics, and composites

• Biological specimen imaging

• Inspection of electronic components

Suitable samples

• Polished surfaces of metals or ceramics

• Thin sections in resin (e.g. metallography)

• Transparent materials like tissues or thin films

Related techniques

• Confocal microscopy is suitable for the reconstruction of three-dimensional structures. Ask for an offer if you are interested.