Table-top cathodoluminescence microscope

Objective

We propose to develop a turnkey table-top cathodoluminescence (CL) microscope demonstrator that combines electron microscopy and optical spectroscopy to make optical images with a spatial resolution as small as 20 nm. The instrument design builds on expertise on CL microscopy that I have built up during my ERC Advanced research that has led to a highly successful and highly rewarded CL research program. The new microscope design is fully user-friendly, has a footprint of only 60×60 cm, enables high sample throughput, does not need dedicated infrastructure or support, and has a projected sales price below 200 k€. This new design can serve as a unique inspection tool for nano-characterization in a broad range of technical fields, with a projected sales of 100 systems (total 20 sales price M€) per year. The new design will integrate a table-top electron microscope with a newly designed light collection and analysis system designed together with the company Delmic. The CL microscope demonstrator system will be used to perform test measurements for industrial customers in two beachhead markets to explore the market need for the new instrument and to create strong feedback of initial users on the demonstrator design. Knock-on benefits in the academic market are also expected. If successful, the project can be taken to full commercialization through the company Delmic.

Field of science

• /social sciences/economics and business/business and management/commerce
• /natural sciences/chemical sciences/analytical chemistry/spectroscopy

Programme(s)

• H2020-EU.1.1. - EXCELLENT SCIENCE - European Research Council (ERC)

Topic(s)

• ERC-2018-PoC - ERC Proof of Concept Grant

Call for proposal

ERC-2018-PoC
See other projects for this call

Funding Scheme

Host institution

Beneficiaries (2)