The RISE Microscope enables for the first time the acquisition of SEM and Raman images from the same sample area and the correlation of ultra-structural and chemical information with one microscope system

RISE Microscopy is a novel correlative microscopy technique which combines confocal Raman Imaging and Scanning Electron (RISE) Microscopy within one integrated microscope system. This unique combination provides clear advantages for the microscope user with regard to comprehensive sample characterization: electron microscopy is an excellent technique for visualizing the sample surface structures in the nanometer range; confocal Raman imaging is an established spectroscopic method used for the detection of the chemical and molecular components of a sample. It can also generate 2D- and 3D-images and depth profiles to visualize the distribution of the molecular compounds within a sample. The RISE Microscope enables for the first time the acquisition of SEM and Raman images from the same sample area and the correlation of ultra-structural and chemical information with one microscope system.

Both analytical methods are fully integrated into the RISE Microscope. Between the different measurements an extremely precise scan stage automatically transfers the sample inside the microscope’s vacuum chamber and re-positions it. The integrated RISE software carries out the required parameter adjustments and instrument alignments. The acquired results can then be correlated and the Raman and SEM images overlaid. “RISE Microscopy enables unprecedented opportunities for the most comprehensive ultra-structural and molecular sample analyses.” explains Dr. Olaf Hollricher, CEO and Director R&D at WITec “The novel RISE Microscope is another striking example of WITec’s enormous innovative strength. It fulfills all requirements of an outstanding, correlative microscopy technique and will convince the Raman as well as the SEM community.”

TESCAN and WITec arranged worldwide sales and after-sales cooperation for the RISE Microscope to take advantage of the synergy effects of both companies. “We are very pleased to cooperate with WITec. Our common purpose is to achieve the utmost customer satisfaction.” says Jaroslav Klíma, Chairman of the Board and CEO at TESCAN ORSAY HOLDING “We consider this an important step in the development of integrated systems for the observation and analysis of samples on the nano-scale. The RISE Microscope enriches the TESCAN portfolio enormously with regard to high-end products and emphasizes our leading position in the electron microscopy market.”

The RISE Microscope provides all functions and features of a stand-alone SEM and a confocal Raman microscope. Both SEM and Raman are high-resolution imaging techniques with sub-nanometer and diffraction limited 200 - 300 nanometer resolution, respectively. In Raman imaging mode the sample can be scanned through a range of 250 µm x 250 µm x 250 µm. RISE Microscopy pairs ease-of-use with exceptional analyzing benefits and is therefore suited to a large variety of applications such as nanotechnology, materials science, and life science.

WITec and TESCAN have jointly developed the RISE Microscope within the framework of the UnivSEM project. UnivSEM receives funding from the European Union Seventh Framework Program (FP7/2007-2013) under grant agreement n° 280566. Companies, universities and research institutes from the Czech Republic, Germany, and Switzerland contribute to the project. The EU-project supports the development of supplementary analysis tools for scanning electron microscopes.

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About TESCAN:
The leading provider of scientific instrumentation is well known for its innovation and openness to work with researchers and customizing applications to fit specific analytical needs. TESCAN’s product range includes thermal emission systems, LaB6 systems, field emission systems, FIB and Plasma FIB systems. The TESCAN brand has, within 23 years of its existence, built a formidable reputation; 1600+ SEMs installed in over 60 countries are a testament to TESCAN first-class quality and proven technology.

TESCAN ORSAY HOLDING is a multi-national company established by the merger of the Czech company TESCAN, a leading global supplier of SEMs and focused ion beam workstations, and the French company ORSAY PHYSICS, a world leader in customized Focused Ion Beam and Electron Beam technology.

About WITec:
WITec is a leading manufacturer of confocal and scanning-probe microscopes for state-of-the-art Raman, Atomic Force (AFM), and Scanning Near-Field Optical Microscopy (SNOM). WITec’s headquarters is located in Ulm, Germany, where all WITec products are developed and produced. Branch offices in USA, Japan, Singapore, and Spain ensure a worldwide sales and support network. From the company’s founding in 1997, WITec has been distinguished by its innovative product portfolio and a microscope design that enables combinations of the various imaging techniques within one system. An exemplar of the company’s breakthrough development is the world’s first integrated Raman-AFM microscope. To this day, WITec’s confocal microscopes are unrivaled in sensitivity, resolution and imaging capabilities. Significant innovation awards document WITec’s enduring success and innovative strength.