The Scanning Electron Microscopy Laboratory at the University of Caldas offers the following services:

1. Micrograph acquisition (three-dimensional and high-resolution images) in both conductive and non-conductive samples.

2. Qualitative and semi-quantitative elemental chemical analysis at points of interest, profiles, or maps.

Service Hours:

The scanning electron microscope service is available Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

Service Protocol:

Users must first approach the laboratory manager and reserve their spot (subject to equipment availability and on a first-come, first-served basis). Reservations can be made by phone at (+576) 8781500 ext. 12682, in person at the laboratory, or via email at andres.pardo@ucaldas.edu.co and gustavo.bolanos@ucaldas.edu.co. The maximum continuous service time is 3 hours. To ensure efficient operation, unless in special cases, please refrain from reserving more than 2 sessions per week.

During the reservation, users must provide their full name, telephone number, and email address.

For internal University of Caldas users (see details below for pricing analysis): Professors must present approval from the research director indicating that the samples are part of a University of Caldas research project. If the samples are part of a degree project, they must have the approval of the department director or thesis supervisor.

To use the scanning electron microscope analysis, users must deposit the corresponding payment for the service hours to be used, depending on the samples and quantity for analysis (if coating is required). The cost of the service must be deposited into savings account number 084500007467 at Davivienda bank, including the code 00HD190 under the name of UNIVERSIDAD DE CALDAS. The person must attach a copy of the deposit slip or send a photo of the payment receipt to gustavo.bolanos@ucaldas.edu.co or attach it to the corresponding form. (Example deposit slip format)

Reservations can be canceled at any time by notifying the laboratory manager at least 24 hours in advance to accommodate another user. Failure to give prior notice will result in a charge for the session.

The session will start at the agreed-upon time with the laboratory technician, regardless of whether the user arrives late.

The user is responsible for directing the session, while the operator of the scanning electron microscope manipulates and sets the appropriate conditions and variables for obtaining images, analysis, and results, which are useful for the user’s study of the sample.

Samples must be prepared by the user ready for observation. If the user wishes to obtain images and analysis in high vacuum, depending on the type of sample, they must be dry solids or in the final dehydration phase, with fixation and post-fixation treatments already performed. Metal coating (depending on the analysis) is done using the equipment available in the laboratory. The microscope can operate in low vacuum and environmental modes, allowing the analysis of non-conductive samples without the need for coating and the analysis of hydrated samples by working in a gaseous environment (water vapor) with variable pressure. Chemical analysis using EDS in these vacuum modes is less precise.

The maximum number of individuals allowed in the laboratory for sample analysis is 4, including the microscope operator.

Micrographs and results of chemical and/or cathodoluminescence analysis will be provided on a blank CD/DVD provided by the user. Under no circumstances are USB drives or other external media accepted, apart from those mentioned.

If you require an invoice, please make the request but do not deposit the payment until the university generates it.

Note: If you agree to the terms of our service, please complete the corresponding form provided below