Electron microscopy for the characterisation of atmospheric particles

Abstract

Transmission and scanning electron microscopy and their analytical associated techniques constitute an efficient way to assess the presence and to identify particles in the range of the micrometer and down to the nanometer even when the constitute only a low fraction of the total dust. Recent developments in high resolution transmission electron microscopy and electron energy loss spectroscopy may lead to new means of characterisation of imperfect structures like carbon blacks and soot.