Site-specific, cross-sectional imaging of biomaterials and the cell/biomaterial interface using focused ion beam/scanning electron microscopy

Abstract

Focused ion beam / scanning electron microscopy (FIBSEM) procedures are examined for the sectioning of biological cell / biomedical implant materials. Conventional site-specific lift-out techniques enable the structural characterisation of hydroxyapatite/Ti coatings. Cryo-FIBSEM procedures, as used to investigate human osteoblasts/ hydroxyapatite/Ti structures, emphasise the need for the repeated deposition of coating layers to protect such delicate structures and to minimise beam curtaining effects. © 2008 IOP Publishing Ltd.