Use of WetSEM® capsules for convenient multimodal scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, and micro Raman spectroscopy characterisation of technetium oxides

Abstract SEM–EDX and Raman spectroscopy analysis of radioactive compounds is often restricted to dedicated instrumentation, within radiological working areas, manage the hazard risk contamination. Here, we demonstrate application WetSEM® capsules for containment technetium powder materials, enabling routine multimodal characterisation with general user outside a controlled area. The electron transparent membrane enables SEM imaging submicron non-conducting powders acquisition Tc Lα X-ray emission, using low cost desktop system, as well good quality μ-Raman spectra 532 nm laser.