Liquid flow-cell sample holder for liquid-phase electron microscopy and correlative microscopy research

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Scientific breakthroughs often build on the successful visualization of objects invisible to the naked eye. Electron microscopy is one of the most powerful characterization techniques for studying structures of materials and related phenomena down to atomic/molecular length scales. We request to get a fully sealed, liquid flow-cell sample holder which permits the characterization of materials in liquid, using so-called liquid-phase electron microscopy. The liquid cell holder will be in high demand for multiple research areas such as: 1) catalysts for energy conversion; 2) crystallization, self-assembly of nanomaterial and polymer systems; 3) corrosion of metals related to both synthesis of nanomaterials and forensic failure analysis; and 4) identifying extraterrestrial amino acids in asteroids. ******The proposed instrumentation will support five NSERC-funded research programs (Jane Howe, Doug Perovic, Mitchell Winnik, Roger Newman, and Kim Tait) that can greatly benefit from using the liquid cell for studying the samples in liquid while measuring structural and chemical information in situ. These researchers have been recognized internationally for their work with in situ electron microscopy and applied materials research. Howe will study electrocatalytic reaction in liquid, gaining fundamental knowledge for developing new technologies for carbon capture and utilization. Perovic will study the mechanistic details of photothermal catalysis for different classes of materials and supports in liquid-phase environments. Winnik will focus on self-assembly process of block copolymers in liquid. Newman will image pure metals and noble-metal alloys during corrosion processes that are relevant to energy systems and the synthesis of novel nanomaterials. Tait will search for the evidence of life in meteorites and asteroids and use this information for understanding the origin of life on Earth.******Liquid-phase electron microscopy is a characterization area that is experiencing revolutionary growth, as it opens doors to many new scientific research opportunities. The liquid holder will be located at the Ontario Centre for the Characterization of Advanced Materials user facility, and maintained by dedicated personnel. Measures will be taken to ensure the proposed instrumentation has the highest possible degree of utilization and accessibility by all interested researchers. The Applicants have a proven track record in mentoring diverse highly qualified personnel (HQP) in an inclusive research environment and are committed to further break down hidden barriers in research space. HQP will use the state-of-the-art equipment to solve critical problems in the fields of catalysis and energy conversion, corrosion, and planetary science. They will involve in the design of the liquid microscopy experiments and the operation of the liquid cell holder. They will gain first-hand experience to work with fundamental research coupled with applied, industrially-relevant projects.