England (Commonwealth Union) – Electron microscopy plays a key role in giving researchers a detailed picture on components not visible in light microscopy. The heavy cost of Electron microscopy has heavily restricted its availability.
The University of Plymouth has begun investing over £1.7million to improve the Plymouth Electron Microscopy Centre (PEMC). The technology makes it possible for particles to be seen at greater than one million times their original size, giving technicians the ability to explore items not visible to the human eye. These microscopes are already being utilized by researchers and businesses in a variety of sectors from geology and mining to manufacturing and food.
The University researchers had the benefit of using it to study the first meteorite to appear in the UK for over 30 years, and are being made use of every week by university students in a variety of fields. Staff at the center have been active in creating greater awareness on the possibilities of electron microscopy, such as taking its new desktop microscope to various events.
The activities were backed by a grant of approximately £1million from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), which is the third time PEMC has been awarded ERDF funding.
“When we talk to people about electron microscopy, there is sometimes an initial sense that it isn’t relevant to them. However, when we explain the breadth of businesses and sectors we have worked in over the years – from nature to technology and all aspects of the circular economy – they quickly see how relevant it is across the board,” Dr Natasha Stephen, Director of the Plymouth Electron Microscopy Centre, explained .”This new and expanded centre presents us with the exciting opportunity to explore new collaborative research and engage even more businesses with its possibilities and potential. It will enable us also to use our facilities to address some of the greatest challenges facing our planet.”
