When analysing the characterisation of organic and non-organic samples, the collection of images and data uses a variety of instruments and techniques. In the majority of cases, the use of a single analytical approach is unable to provide all of the answers when analysing these specimens. 

In an ideal world, determining the complete characterisation and analysis for the same area of interest in a single sample would be achieved using complementary approaches, such as X-ray diffraction and light microscopy.

With this in mind, Agar Scientific developed a unique range of SEM pin stubs designed specifically for correlative microscopy and forensic gun shot residue (GSR) analysis. We named this range "CorrStub".

CorrStub allows the user to determine the precise location of an area of interest, through a number of compatible imaging and analysis platforms. 

For example, a specific point on the surface of the sample can be analysed through FIB-SEM before, or after, transferral to an X-ray spectrometer, an X-ray diffraction system, or a light microscope. 

CorrStub includes the following unique and useful features:

  • A precise V-notch on an SEM stub - this has many advantages, as it offers a precise X-Y reference point to analyse any sample. The intersection of the X and Y axis of the V-notch also provides a zero-coordinate reference point. This means images acquired from a number of instruments can be overlaid using a crosshair and micrometrical stage. The stub surface can also be precisely mapped in relation to the V-notch reference point, allowing the stub to be re-visited at a later date, or on another imaging platform
    - CorrStub can be supplied laser-etched with a unique combination of 1 x alphanumerical and 4 x numerical characters for sample identification
  • CorrStub can be supplied laser-etched with a unique combination of 1 alphanumerical and 4 numerical characters for sample identification
  • CorrStub is available as a standard 12.5mm diameter specimen stub to fit LEO/CAMBRIDGE, FEI/PHILIPS, CAMSCAN, TESCAN and ZEISS instruments
  • Supplied pre-mounted with Leit tabs, precisely applied and ready-loaded in individual plastic tubes or boxes of 12
  • CorrStub can also be supplied pre-mounted Aluminium core carbon tabs. Compared to a standard carbon tab, these tabs have a pore-free surface which, when combined with the V-notch, makes imaging and analysis easier when adopting a variety of techniques and instruments. Both sides of the carbon tab are covered by aluminium foil and carbon-based adhesive compound, which reduces surface charge during FIB-SEM

Get it while you can... AGG303-10 standard CorrStub supplied on a 12.5mm specimen stub is now better than half price, down from £21.43 to £10.71!