Research on the microscopic behavior of materials is entering a new era of multi-scenario coupling and in-situ dynamic characterization. CIQTEK has launched an innovative In-situ Mechanical Testing Solution, designed with outstanding openness and compatibility. It enables seamless integration of CIQTEK’s full range of electron microscopes with mainstream in-situ testing devices, providing a flexible and efficient platform for coupled analysis in diverse research scenarios.

Breaking the limitations of closed systems, the solution integrates all critical elements required for in-situ EM adaptability, featuring:

• High beam current: >100 nA, ideal for fast EDS/EBSD analysis

• Large space: 360 × 310 × 288 mm (L × W × H)

• High load capacity: 5 kg (up to 10 kg with custom fixtures)

• Multi-view CCDs: ensuring system safety during in-situ operation

• Multiple interfaces: supporting customized flange accessories

• Pre-acceptance: full accessory debugging before delivery, ensuring complete functionality without on-site installation issues

The solution can be configured across CIQTEK’s full range of electron microscopy products, including CIQTEK SEM3200, SEM5000X, DB550 dual-beam systems, and more. It also offers seamless compatibility with tensile stages, heating stages, nanoindenters, and electrochemical workstations from world-leading suppliers. This open architecture enables researchers to flexibly combine the most suitable equipment, maximizing experimental performance.

CIQTEK’s in-situ stage solution supported customers in publishing a high-impact paper (DOI: 10.1126/science.adq6807).

CIQTEK’s In-situ Mechanical Solution also supports multi-field coupling (mechanical, thermal, electrochemical), enabling nanoscale real-time observation of materials under complex environments. By synchronizing high-resolution imaging with in-situ signals, researchers can capture critical phenomena such as crack propagation, phase transitions, and interfacial reactions with precision.

With a temperature range of -170 to 1200 °C, advanced load control, and rapid response systems, it accurately simulates service conditions of materials across various industries. Combined with EBSD and EDS, it provides comprehensive datasets for understanding material behavior under coupled stimuli.

Successfully applied in aerospace materials, new energy devices, and biomedical materials, this solution demonstrates CIQTEK’s exceptional compatibility and scalability in advanced electron microscopy platforms.

In life sciences, achieving high-precision and large-scale 3D structural and dynamic analysis of biological samples such as cells and tissues has become key to breaking through research bottlenecks. CIQTEK has introduced a multi-technology-route Volumetric Electron Microscopy (VEM) solution, integrating SS-SEM, SBF-SEM, and FIB-SEM. This provides an all-around, high-performance, and intelligent platform for biological 3D reconstruction, helping researchers uncover the micro-level mysteries of life.

Three Advanced Technical Routes

01. SS-SEM High-Speed Imaging
By combining external serial sectioning with the CIQTEK high-speed HEM6000-Bio SEM, this solution enables rapid imaging and automated acquisition of large-volume samples. Data acquisition efficiency is more than 5× higher than conventional SEM, supporting 24/7 unattended high-throughput operation.

02. SBF-SEM In-Situ Sectioning
Based on the CIQTEK ultra-high-resolution SEM5000X with an integrated microtome, this approach achieves in-situ sectioning and imaging cycles. It offers simple operation, high automation, and effectively avoids surface contamination.

03. FIB-SEM High-Precision Analysis
Leveraging focused ion beam–electron beam dual-beam systems, this route delivers nanoscale Z-axis resolution to analyze fine structures such as organelles and membranes. It enables in-situ 3D reconstruction without physical slicing.

Intelligent Integration & Broad Applications

The CIQTEK VEM solution deeply integrates AI algorithms and a multilingual software platform, supporting a full workflow from data acquisition, image alignment, and segmentation to 3D visualization. Compatible with mainstream reconstruction software, it significantly lowers the learning curve.

Application cases span neuroscience, cell biology, and pathogenic microbiology, offering a powerful tool for advancing life science research.

As semiconductor manufacturing advances to finer process nodes, wafer-level defect analysis, failure location, and micro-nano fabrication have become key to improving yield. CIQTEK introduces the 8-inch Wafer Dual-Beam Full-Size Processing Solution, combining high-resolution imaging and precise ion beam processing to achieve "observation-analysis-cutting" across the entire wafer, providing strong technical support for advanced semiconductor processes.

This solution features a 150mm long-stroke high-precision sample stage, enabling full-wafer, non-destructive observation and processing of 8-inch wafers. With an external optical navigation system and intelligent anti-collision algorithms, it ensures rapid and precise wafer positioning and safe operation. The system is equipped with a Schottky field emission electron gun, offering a resolution of 0.9 nm @ 15kV, and an ion beam resolution of 3 nm @ 30kV, capable of defect detection, cross-section slicing, and micro-structure fabrication at the nanoscale.

Core Advantages:

• 150mm Travel Stage:

• • Combines long travel with high precision for an extensive observation range.

  • Excellent compatibility with different-sized fixtures.

  • Robust structure ensures wafer stability and quick, reliable loading.

• 8-inch Quick Exchange:

  • Intelligent weight-bearing design with a sliding base for stability and durability.

  • Full-size compatibility: Supports 2/4/6/8-inch wafers.

  • Fast sample exchange: Vacuum pumping and sample loading within one minute.

• Software and Anti-Collision:

• • Fully automatic intelligent navigation with accurate movement and positioning.

  • Multi-axis coordinated motion for full-wafer observation.

  • Smart anti-collision: Trajectory simulation and algorithmic spatial calculations to avoid risks.

  • Multiple real-time monitoring: Real-time multi-angle monitoring of wafer position.

• External Optical Navigation:

  • Ultra-stable structure design suppresses image shake.

  • High-definition imaging with a precise field of view for full-wafer display.

  • Professional anti-glare lighting reduces wafer surface reflection.

Wafer observation range

CIQTEK Dual-Beam Electron Microscope Solution combines outstanding hardware with intelligent software systems, enabling efficient defect detection and process optimization through one-click brightness and contrast adjustment, auto-focus, and multi-format image output, empowering users to complete the full chain of tasks from defect discovery to process optimization.

This solution uses the CIQTEK dual-beam SEM and specialized MEMS heating chips, with temperature control accuracy better than 0.1°C and temperature resolution better than 0.1°C. The system also features excellent temperature uniformity and low infrared radiation, ensuring stable analysis at high temperatures. The system supports various characterization techniques during heating, including micro-region morphology observation, EBSD crystal orientation analysis, and EDS composition analysis. This allows for a comprehensive understanding of phase transitions, stress evolution, and composition migration under thermal effects.

The system operates without breaking the vacuum, fulfilling the full process requirements for sample preparation and characterization (in-situ micro-region EBSD).

The integrated workflow design covers the entire process, from sample preparation (ion beam processing, nano-manipulator extraction) to in-situ welding and heating tests. The system supports multi-angle operation, featuring a 45° heating chip and a 36° copper grid position, which meet the complex experimental needs. The system has been successfully applied in high-temperature performance research of alloys, ceramics, and semiconductors, helping users gain deeper insights into material responses in real-world environments.

September 26–30, Wuhan | 2025 Chinese National Conference on Electron Microscopy
CIQTEK's eight major electron microscopy solutions will be showcased!

CIQTEK has introduced its next-generation 12-inch wafer scanning electron microscope (SEM) solution, designed to meet the demands of advanced semiconductor manufacturing processes. Offering full-wafer inspection without the need for rotation or tilting, this innovative solution ensures high-resolution, non-destructive analysis to support critical process development.

Equipped with an ultra-large travel stage (X/Y ≥ 300 mm), the system provides complete coverage of 12-inch wafers, eliminating the need for sample cutting or transfer. This ensures true "original size, original position" observation. With a Schottky field emission electron gun, it achieves a resolution of 1.0 nm at 15 kV and 1.5 nm at 1 kV, minimizing electron beam damage, making it ideal for sensitive materials and structures.

Key features include:

• Ultra-large travel stage (X/Y > 300 mm) for full-wafer inspection

• High-resolution imaging: 1.0 nm at 15 kV and 1.5 nm at 1 kV

• Automated loading and optical navigation system for fast wafer exchange and precise positioning

• Intelligent software for auto-focus, astigmatism correction, and multi-format image output

CIQTEK's 12-inch wafer inspection SEM is more than just an observation tool; it's a critical instrument driving higher yields and smaller nodes in semiconductor manufacturing.

September 26–30, Wuhan
CIQTEK will unveil eight cutting-edge electron microscopy solutions at the 2025 Chinese National Conference on Electron Microscopy!

Leveraging its advanced scanning electron microscopy technology, CIQTEK has introduced the Cryo-SEM Solution, which integrates low-temperature freezing and vacuum transfer. This enables in-situ, non-destructive, and high-fidelity microscopic observation of biological and sensitive samples, truly “freezing” the microscopic details of life.

With liquid-nitrogen slush rapid-freezing technology, samples can be vitrified instantly at -210 °C, preserving their original morphology and chemical composition to the greatest extent. The integrated cryo-preparation system combines freeze-fracture, sublimation coating, and low-temperature transfer, avoiding the complexity and potential errors of conventional manual preparation. Throughout the entire process, samples are maintained under cryogenic vacuum conditions and transferred to the SEM cryo-stage, where high-resolution imaging at -180 °C effectively suppresses electron beam damage and significantly improves image quality.

Cryo-prepared boxwood leaf showing intact vein structures, while the untreated sample exhibits severe shrinkage.

Yogurt

Mold

Cryo-prepared yogurt sample clearly reveals protein networks and fungal hyphae.

In addition, the system offers strong compatibility, adaptable across CIQTEK's full range of SEMs and dual-beam FIBSEM systems, meeting diverse needs from routine observation to advanced analysis.

The CIQTEK Cryo-SEM Solution is more than just a set of instruments. It embodies a scientific approach dedicated to faithfully restoring the microscopic world. It empowers researchers to overcome technical limitations, capture critical details at the micro scale of life, and drive both fundamental research and applied development to new heights.

September 26–30, Wuhan

At the 2025 Chinese Electron Microscopy Academic Conference, CIQTEK will unveil eight cutting-edge EM solutions.

Stay tuned!

CIQTEK is pleased to announce the successful installation and training of the FIBSEM DB550 at our Korean distributor GSEM’s Electron Microscope Center. This milestone marks an important step in expanding access to advanced focused ion beam scanning electron microscope (FIBSEM) technology in South Korea.

The DB550 combines high-resolution imaging with precise ion beam milling, enabling researchers to perform 3D reconstruction, cross-sectional analysis, and nanoscale material modification with efficiency and accuracy. With these capabilities, the system opens new possibilities for semiconductor analysis, materials science, and life science research.

Following installation, CIQTEK engineers provided hands-on training to the GSEM team, covering both standard workflows and advanced applications. The interactive sessions ensured that users gained practical experience in operating the instrument, from sample preparation to high-resolution imaging and data analysis. The enthusiasm and engagement of the GSEM team highlighted the strong potential for the DB550 to support diverse research projects at the center.

This collaboration reflects CIQTEK’s commitment to working closely with partners worldwide. By equipping GSEM’s facility with the DB550, we are not only strengthening our presence in the Korean market but also helping local researchers gain access to cutting-edge tools for scientific innovation.

We look forward to seeing the exciting results that GSEM’s Electron Microscope Center will achieve with the DB550, and we remain committed to providing ongoing technical support and collaboration.

The 10th EFEPR Summer School, held at the University of Manchester, welcomed over 130 young researchers and established experts from across Europe for an inspiring week of lectures, tutorials, and hands-on sessions. CIQTEK, together with our UK partner SciMed, was proud to be part of this vibrant event dedicated to advancing Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) science.

At our booth, we presented the CIQTEK EPR200M benchtop spectrometer, a compact yet powerful platform designed for teaching labs, research groups, and emerging facilities. Many participants were excited to see how the instrument combines high performance with accessibility, sparking conversations about applications ranging from free radical studies to transition metal analysis.

But science wasn’t the only highlight. To bring extra warmth to the event, we introduced our CIQTEK panda mascot—a plush companion that quickly became a favorite among attendees. The panda added a touch of fun, helping students relax and encouraging more open and engaging discussions. It was a great reminder that science can be both rigorous and joyful.

Throughout the week, our team enjoyed deep discussions on topics such as variable temperature experiments, modernization of legacy EPR systems, and the role of benchtop instruments in expanding access to EPR education. These exchanges reinforced our commitment to supporting both established laboratories and the next generation of researchers.

A special thank you goes to our distributor SciMed for their strong support and collaboration throughout the event. Their expertise and enthusiasm helped create an inviting space where participants could explore new ideas and connect with the latest in EPR instrumentation.

We leave Manchester energized by the passion of the EFEPR community and look forward to continuing our contributions to global EPR education and research.

From August 24–29, 2025, CIQTEK participated in the Microscopy Conference 2025 (MC2025) held in Karlsruhe, Germany, one of Europe’s largest and most influential events in the field of electron microscopy. The conference attracted leading scientists, instrument developers, and industrial users, creating a dynamic platform for academic exchange and technological collaboration.

As part of the program, CIQTEK delivered an Exhibitor Presentation titled:
“Unlocking the Power of High-Speed Scanning Electron Microscopy — without Compromising Superb Imaging Resolution at Low kV.”

The presentation highlighted CIQTEK’s approach to enabling high-throughput SEM imaging while maintaining exceptional resolution at low accelerating voltages—a balance critical for applications in materials science, semiconductor failure analysis, and life sciences research. The talk generated considerable interest among attendees and sparked lively discussions about how advanced SEM systems can accelerate both fundamental research and industrial applications.

Beyond the presentation, the CIQTEK team actively engaged with researchers and industry professionals, sharing insights into the company’s broader electron microscopy portfolio and exploring opportunities for collaboration. These exchanges not only deepened awareness of CIQTEK’s technological strengths but also strengthened connections within the global microscopy community.

CIQTEK’s successful participation in MC2025 reflects its ongoing mission to push the boundaries of EM imaging technology and to provide researchers worldwide with powerful, accessible, and innovative solutions. Looking ahead, the company will continue to expand international partnerships and contribute to the advancement of microscopy-driven discovery.

Pushing the Frontiers of Bioprinting with CIQTEK SEM

At Ningbo University’s Institute of Intelligent Medicine and Biomedical Engineering, researchers are tackling real-world medical challenges by merging materials science, biology, medicine, information technology, and engineering. The Institute has quickly become a hub for wearable and remote healthcare innovations, advanced medical imaging, and intelligent analysis, intending to turn lab breakthroughs into real clinical impact.

Recently, Dr. Lei Shao, Executive Vice Dean of the Institute, shared highlights of his research journey and how CIQTEK's cutting-edge SEM is fueling his team’s discoveries.

CIQTEK SEM at Ningbo University’s Institute of Intelligent Medicine and Biomedical Engineering

Printing the Future: From Miniature Hearts to Vascular Networks

Since 2016, Dr. Shao has been pioneering biomanufacturing and 3D bioprinting, with the goal of engineering living, functional tissues outside the human body. His team’s work spans from 3D-printed miniature hearts to complex vascularized structures, with applications in drug screening, disease modeling, and regenerative medicine.

A 3D-printed miniature heart

Backed by funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China and local research agencies, his lab has introduced several breakthroughs:

• Smart bioprinting strategies: Using fluid rope-coiling effects with coaxial bioprinting to fabricate microfibers with controlled morphology, enabling the creation of vascular organoids.

• Cryopreservable cell microfibers: Developing standardized, scalable, and cryopreservable cellular microfibers through coaxial bioprinting, with high potential for 3D cell culture, organoid fabrication, drug screening, and transplantation.

• Sacrificial bioinks: Printing mesoscopic porous networks using sacrificial microgel bioinks, building nutrient pathways for effective oxygen/nutrient delivery.

• Complex vascular systems: Constructing complex vascular networks with coaxial bioprinting while inducing in-situ endothelial cell deposition, solving challenges in vascularization of complex structures.

• Anisotropic tissues: Creating anisotropic tissues using shear-oriented bioinks and pre-shearing printing methods.

• High-cell-density constructs: Proposing an original liquid-particle support bath printing technique for high-cell-density bioinks, achieving lifelike bioactive tissues while overcoming the long-standing trade-off between printability and cell viability in extrusion-based bioprinting.

These advances are paving the way toward functional, transplantable tissues, and potentially even engineered organs.

Accelerating Discovery with CIQTEK SEM

With science advancing rapidly, biomedical research stands at the forefront of innovation. Higher efficiency often leads to greater breakthroughs. According to Dr. Shao, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is one of the most indispensable scientific instruments at the Institute. Since adopting CIQTEK’s field-emission SEM, research efficiency and innovation at the Institute have advanced significantly.

“In the past, we had to send samples to other labs and often waited in long queues, which slowed down our research,” Dr. Shao explained. “Now, with CIQTEK’s SEM in-house, we can capture stunning details of biological materials, from 10 nm hydrogel particles to nanofiber networks inside composite hydrogels. The clarity is game-changing.”

The results speak for themselves: multiple high-impact publications on vascularized tissues, drug carriers, and biomaterials have already stemmed from this work.

Selected publications

For Dr. Shao, the instrument has become more than a microscope:

“It’s an accelerator for innovation, helping us move faster from fundamental research to practical applications.”

From miniature 3D-printed hearts to the nanoworld revealed by SEM, Ningbo University’s Institute of Intelligent Medicine is proving how cross-disciplinary innovation can reshape the future of healthcare.