Methods in Electron Microscopy of Solids

Methods of replicating solid surfaces for electron microscopy are reviewed and compared. Preparation of metal surfaces for electron microscopy is discussed, and the advantages of employing electron diffraction techniques in evaluating prepared surfaces are pointed out. Examples of the application of replicas include steel, precipitation in alloys, such as Alnico 5, and studies of slip in aluminum. Growth spirals on the surfaces of crystals of n-paraffins are demonstrated. The use of thin metal sections and of emission electron microscopy in studying metallic structures is discussed, and examples are given.