The LVSTD is a unique solution (developed and patented by TESCAN) for low vacuum operations that is an advantageous for beam-sensitive samples.
It is based on a modified Everhart-Thornley design equipped with a crystal-based scintillator.
LVSTD is developed in two new versions that work up to 1000Pa (available as an option for VEGA microscopes with extended low vacuum mode up to 2000Pa). These new versions have benefits that we mention some of them below:
- Improved pumping system which allows us to use LVSTD up to 1000 Pa in Low Vacuum Mode. Separate detection chamber of the LVSTD is pumped down by a turbomolecular pump. A rotary pump increases the pumping efficiency of the gas from the detector chamber which is pre-pumped by the turbomolecular pump.
- Increased detected signal in all three versions of the LVSTD detector.
- Combination of LVSTD up to 1000 Pa and Water Vapor Inlet System allows us to observe hydrated samples at temperatures above zero in their natural state.
Other features of LVSTD:
- True secondary electron imaging under low vacuum conditions
- Perfect displaying of the fine surface topography
- Good-quality investigation of non-conductive materials without special preparation
- Fine imaging of the surface structure of materials with low atomic number
- Compact design of the LVSTD allowing for fast and easy interfacing of any chamber manufactured by TESCAN
