What are the Challenges of Using STEM in Catalysis?
Despite its powerful capabilities, STEM also presents several challenges in the context of catalysis:
Sample Preparation: Preparing high-quality, thin samples that are representative of the bulk material can be difficult and time-consuming. Improper preparation can introduce artifacts that obscure true structural features. Radiation Damage: The high-energy electron beam used in STEM can damage sensitive materials, altering their structure and properties. Minimizing radiation damage requires careful optimization of imaging conditions. Interpretation of Data: The complex data obtained from STEM, especially when combined with spectroscopic techniques, requires sophisticated analysis and interpretation. Accurate data analysis is crucial for drawing meaningful conclusions about catalyst behavior.
