Engineers have developed a new powerful microscope that can zoom into objects a million times smaller than the human hair.
The microscope, dubbed the Nion Hermes Scanning Transmission Electron Microscope, was developed by engineers of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).
Aside from being able to zoom in objects a million times smaller than the human hair, the £3.7 million (roughly $4 million) invention can also perform analysis of the objects. This means that it will not only focus on the identification of the atoms, but also observe the bonds, which can lead to better understanding of their electronic properties.
Scientists are hoping that the state-of-the-art microscope will lead to breakthrough that will benefit health and the environment.
"From developing new materials for space travel to creating a better, cheaper treatment for anaemia, this new super-powerful microscope lets UK scientists examine how materials behave at a level a million times smaller than a human hair. This exciting research will help lead to breakthroughs that will benefit not only our health but the environment too," Greg Clark, Minister for Universities, Science and Cities, said in a news release.
The microscope, one of the three in the world, will be placed at the ESPRC SuperSTEM facility at the Daresbury lab complex near Warrington, UK. The other two are based in the United States.
"This EPSRC investment in state-of-the-art equipment is an investment in UK science and engineering. It will give scientists access to a tool that can delve into the heart of materials, discoveries made using this microscope will aid research and lead to innovations that benefit society and our economy," Professor Philip Nelson, ESPRC's chief executive, said.
