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DThe eyes of AI: How mSEMs map the nano-world.

At NanoWorldMaps, advanced imaging technologies such as multi-beam scanning electron microscopes (mSEMs) are more than just microscopes – they act as the sensory organs of artificial intelligence. These instruments generate nanometer-precise data sets on a petabyte scale and enable AI to not only analyze the complexity of the physical world, but to perceive it.

Whether mapping neuronal connections in neuroscience, discovering hidden structures in high-performance materials or inspecting complex semiconductor architectures – high-resolution imaging forms the basis for next-generation scientific findings.

The mSEM uses 91 electron beams working in parallel, enabling ultra-fast, high-resolution imaging of even macroscopic objects on a nanometer scale. The technology is ideal for analyzing semiconductor chips, nanomachines, biological tissue samples or complex organ structures such as the brain. From 2025, NanoWorldMaps will provide access to electron microscopic examinations with the MultiSEM (mSEM) from Zeiss Microscopy.

About NanoWorldMaps

Europe’s new research infrastructure for ultrafast 2D/3D imaging

NanoWorldMaps is a planned, Europe-wide distributed research infrastructure that will provide scientists from industry and research with access to state-of-the-art technologies for ultrafast and large-scale 2D/3D imaging at the nanometer scale. The aim is to position Europe as a leader in high-throughput, multimodal imaging on the nanometer scale.

multi-beam_mouse-brain

multi beam image of mouse brain

Core technologies:

  • Multi-Beam Scanning Electron Microscopy (mSEM): High-resolution scanning electron microscopy for large-area samples.

  • 3D imaging: Stacking of 2D images using focused ion beam or nanotome technology.

  • Nanoscale X-ray imaging: Non-destructive 3D X-ray microscopy with nanometer resolution.

  • Correlative measurement techniques: Combination of methods such as secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) or laser ablation ICP-MS.

Fields of application:

  • Connectomics: Analysis of neuronal connections through high-resolution imaging of entire brain areas.

  • Battery research: Investigation of complete battery electrodes on a nanometer scale for the development of new cell components.

  • Microelectronics: Multimodal imaging for the development of the next generation of chips and microelectronics.

  • Nanostructures: High-throughput scanning for the development of nanomachines, nanostructured components and 2D materials.

Access and services:

  • Access Program: Development of new methods or processing of scientific questions with supported and financed access to the infrastructure.

  • Beamtime Booking: Utilize NanoWorldMaps workflows by easily booking beamtime according to scientific needs.

  • Multi-Node Projects: Combine the imaging power of multiple NanoWorldMaps nodes for projects with very high imaging requirements.

NanoWorldMaps enables ultra-fast and large-scale nano-2D/3D imaging for material and life scientists

NanoWorldMaps is currently in the concept phase and is working on an integrated service concept that ranges from sample preparation and image acquisition to data analysis using supercomputers and artificial intelligence. The provision of validated data on various scientific cloud systems is also planned.

Further information can be found on the official website: https://nanoworldmaps.eu

Whiterock

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