The Thermo Scientific Scios 2 DualBeam is an ultra-high-resolution analytical focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM) system that provides outstanding sample preparation and 3D characterization performance for a wide range of samples, including magnetic and non-conductive materials. With innovative features designed to increase throughput, precision, and ease of use, the Scios 2 DualBeam is an ideal solution to meet the needs of scientists and engineers in advanced research and analysis across academic, governmental, and industrial research environments.

Subsurface characterization

Subsurface or three-dimensional characterization is often required to better understand the structure and properties of a sample. The Scios 2 DualBeam, with optional Thermo Scientific Auto Slice & View 4 (AS&V4) Software, allows for high-quality, fully automated acquisition of multi-modal 3D datasets, including backscattered electron (BSE) imaging for maximum materials contrast, energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) for compositional information, and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) for microstructural and crystallographic information. Combined with Thermo Scientific Avizo Software, the Scios 2 DualBeam delivers a unique workflow solution for high-resolution, advanced 3D characterization and analysis at the nanometer scale.

Backscattered electron and secondary electron imaging

The innovative NICol electron column provides the foundation of the system’s high-resolution imaging and detection capabilities. It offers excellent nanoscale details, with a wide range of working conditions, whether operating at 30 keV in STEM mode (to access structural information) or at lower energies (to obtain charge-free, detailed surface information). With its unique in-lens Thermo Scientific Trinity Detection System, the Scios 2 DualBeam is designed for simultaneous acquisition of angular and energy-selective secondary electron (SE) and BSE imaging. Fast access to detailed nanoscale information is possible not only top-down, but also on tilted specimens or cross-sections. Optional below-the-lens detectors and an electron-beam-deceleration mode ensure fast and easy simultaneous collection of all signals, revealing the smallest features in a material surface or cross-section. Fast, accurate, and reproducible results are obtained thanks to the unique NICol column design with full auto alignments.

TEM sample preparation

Scientists and engineers constantly face new challenges that require highly localized characterization of increasingly complex samples with ever smaller features. The latest technological innovations of the Scios 2 DualBeam, in combination with the optional, easy-to-use, comprehensive Thermo Scientific AutoTEM 4 Software and Thermo Fisher Scientific’s application expertise, allow for fast and easy preparation of site-specific high-resolution S/TEM samples for a wide range of materials. In order to achieve high-quality results, final polishing with low-energy ions is required to minimize surface damage on the sample. The Thermo Scientific Sidewinder HT Focused Ion Beam (FIB) column not only delivers high-resolution imaging and milling at high voltages but also offers good low-voltage performance, enabling the creation of high-quality TEM lamella.