2020-LS-258 - Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)

The RFP is an invitation to submit offers for the provision of equipment for performing SEM analysis for the newly formed WearBioTech facility to produce the next generation of smart interactive wearable devices, as further described in Appendix D – RFP Particulars.

Research overview
The SEM will be housed in a core facility and used by a variety of users. It should therefore be easy to use (software/hardware) and should be capable of housing a variety of sample morphologies and sizes. The SEM should be compact and take up minimal room.

The users of the SEM will be varied across fundamental scientists, applied scientists and engineers, and industrial users. The ability to include different accessories for sample manipulation during use would be ideal; these accessories should either be available from the manufacturer and able to be produced in-house and incorporated into the sample holder. These accessories can be items such as linear stages for providing sample strain.

The unit should include the capability to complete energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis on samples. A low vacuum option should be available to increase possible sample variety. The unit should be easily maintained by a tool manager, although everyday use should be as simple as possible and provide a durable solution to minimize downtime and maintenance.