Multi functional for advanced imaging and surface morphology analysisconfocal microscope

　　ZeissThe LSM 900 Laser Scanning Confocal Microscope (CLSM) is an instrument used for material analysis, which can characterize three-dimensional microstructures and surface morphology in laboratories or multi-user facilities. LSM 900 is capable of precise 3D imaging and analysis of nanomaterials, metals, polymers, and semiconductors. Install the LSM 900 confocal scanning head onto the Zeiss Axio Imager. Z2m upright fully automatic optical microscope or Zeiss Axio Observer 7 inverted microscope, which has all optical microscope observation modes and high-precision confocal surface 3D imaging mode. You can easily integrate all functions into one. The use of these functions does not require switching microscopes, and you will be able to observe in situ, saving a lot of time. Automation will also bring many conveniences to your data collection and post-processing. In addition, LSM 900 has the advantage of non-contact confocal imaging, such as the evaluation of surface roughness.

　advantage

Combining optical microscopy and confocal imaging

The LSM high-end confocal platform LSM 900 is developed specifically for demanding material applications in 2D and 3D.

You can use non-contact confocal imaging to characterize the morphological features of the sample and evaluate surface roughness

Determine the thickness of coatings and films in a non-destructive manner

You can use various imaging methods, including polarization and fluorescence microscopy imaging in optical observation mode or confocal mode

Characterize metallographic samples under reflected light and rock or polymer thin section samples under transmitted light.

　　Efficient sample research

Without the need to switch microscopes, multiple methods can be used to image and analyze new materials and structures, reducing instrument setup time and improving the efficiency of obtaining results.

Optimize your process by using automated data collection at multiple locations on the sample.

You can flexibly define the areas of interest on the overview image and only capture the areas you need.

The scanning range of up to 6144 × 6144 pixels allows you to flexibly define the size and even direction of the scanning area

Complete control over data and its post-processing

Expand imaging range

　　The confocal device helps you expand your wide field analysis capabilities:

Upgrading the Axio Imager. Z2m upright fully automatic microscope or Axio Observer 7 inverted microscope with LSM 900 confocal scanning head allows you to fully utilize its hardware, such as objective lens, stage, light source, as well as the functional diversity of its software and interfaces.

The optional Zeiss ZEN Intellesis software provides machine learning based image segmentation solutions that can be used to identify different phase structures.

When conducting multi-scale experiments, add ZEN Connect to overlay and process images from any source

Using ZEN Data Storage for Intelligent Data Management

Expand your confocal microscope functionality by using the Shuttle&Find correlation microscopy technology module to switch from an optical microscope to an electron microscope, and vice versa. Efficiently combining imaging and analysis methods. Obtaining sample information in material analysis applications. The process is completely reproducible.

　　Confocal principle for 3D imaging of the entire sample

The LSM 900 microscope system uses laser as the light source to collect laser reflection signals of a certain thickness of light cut from the sample, and scans them at a three-dimensional height to obtain an image stack of the light cut surface. There are small-sized light barriers (usually referred to as pinholes) in the optical path, which only allow light from the focal plane to pass through and block light from non focal planes from entering the detector.

In order to image the light section, it is also necessary to control the laser beam to scan in the X and Y directions. When scanning, the information on the focal plane will appear bright, while the information on the non focal plane will appear black.

By moving the relative position between the sample and the objective lens, a series of optical sectional image stacks along the height direction can be obtained in a non-destructive manner.

By analyzing the brightness variation curve of a single pixel position in the horizontal image, the height value of the object at the current pixel position can be obtained. By integrating the height information of all pixel positions within the entire field of view, a height distribution cloud map can be formed on the test area.

　　objective lens

Confocal dedicated C Epiplan-APOCHROMAT high-performance objective lens

The use of apochromatic flat field correction for the C Epiplan-APOCHROMAT series objective lenses can better meet the stringent requirements of reflective light applications.

This series of objectives can ensure excellent imaging contrast and high transmittance in the visible spectrum range.

At the same time, good differential interference effects and clear fluorescence images can be obtained in wide field observation mode.

The C Epiplan-APOCHROMAT objective is designed specifically for confocal imaging and can achieve the minimum aberration in the entire field of view when using a laser wavelength of 405 nm. Using this objective lens can generate better morphology data with less interference noise and artifacts, thereby presenting more surface details of the sample.

　　software

OAD: Interface of ZEN imaging software

The Zeiss LSM 900 includes the latest version of ZEN imaging software, which includes an open application development (OAD) interface for data exchange.

Customize and automate your workflow. When the basic ZEN software cannot meet your needs, you can use established third-party analysis and research software (such as MATLAB) to exchange data.

You can create macro solutions on your own. Easily access a range of important features of ZEN, including The capability of component libraries such as Net Framework.

3D surface analysis using ConfoMap

ConfoMap is an ideal choice for achieving 3D surface morphology display and analysis.

Evaluate the quality and functionality of surface properties based on the latest measurement standards, such as ISO 25178.

You can conduct comprehensive geometric shape, functionality, and roughness studies on images in the software, as well as create detailed surface analysis reports.

New optional modules have been added for advanced surface texture analysis, contour analysis, grain and particle analysis, 3D Fourier analysis, and surface evolution analysis and statistics.

　　Laser configuration

Choose different laser modules based on your application

Expanding the application scope of confocal microscopy, you have two options:

The single channel system with a UV laser module (405 nm wavelength) corresponds to Class 2 laser products. Its short wavelength can achieve imaging with a lateral resolution of up to 120 nm.

When performing applications such as cell growth imaging on biomaterials, you can configure LSM 900 with four laser wavelengths - URGB laser modules with 405, 488, 561, and 640 nm. This multi excitation wavelength can help you image the distribution of fluorescent dyes.