A research team led by Prof. Haomin Wang from the Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, has achieved significant progress in studying the magnetism of zigzag graphene nanoribbons (zGNRs) using the CIQTEK Scanning NV Microscope (SNVM).

Building on their previous research, the team fabricated oriented atomic grooves in hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) by pre-etching with metal nanoparticles and synthesized chiral-controlled graphene nanoribbons within these grooves through a vapor-phase catalytic CVD method. The resulting ~9 nm-wide zGNRs embedded in the hBN lattice exhibited intrinsic magnetic properties, which were directly confirmed experimentally for the first time using SNVM combined with magnetic transport measurements.

This groundbreaking work lays a solid foundation for developing graphene-based spintronic devices. The study, titled “Signatures of magnetism in zigzag graphene nanoribbons embedded in a hexagonal boron nitride lattice”, was published in the renowned journal Nature Materials.

https://doi.org/10.1038/s41563-025-02317-4

Understanding Graphene Magnetism

Graphene, as a unique two-dimensional material, exhibits p-orbital electron magnetism that differs fundamentally from the localized d/f orbital magnetism found in conventional materials. This distinction opens new directions for exploring carbon-based quantum magnetism. Zigzag graphene nanoribbons (zGNRs) are particularly promising for spintronic applications because of their predicted magnetic electronic states near the Fermi level. However, detecting zGNR magnetism through electrical transport measurements has remained highly challenging.

The main difficulties include the limited length of bottom-up synthesized nanoribbons, which complicates device fabrication, and the chemically reactive edges that lead to instability or inhomogeneous doping. Furthermore, in narrow zGNRs, strong antiferromagnetic coupling between edge states makes it difficult to electrically detect magnetic signals. These challenges have hindered direct observation of intrinsic magnetism in zGNRs.

SNVM Reveals Magnetic Signals at Room Temperature

Embedding zGNRs within an hBN lattice enhances edge stability and introduces built-in electric fields, providing an ideal environment for studying magnetism. Using CIQTEK’s room-temperature SNVM, the researchers directly visualized magnetic signals in zGNRs for the first time under ambient conditions.

Figure 1. Magnetic measurement of zGNRs embedded in a hexagonal boron nitride lattice using the Scanning NV Microscope

In electrical transport measurements, the ~9 nm-wide zGNR transistors demonstrated high conductivity and ballistic transport behavior. Under magnetic fields, the devices showed pronounced anisotropic magnetoresistance, with resistance changes up to 175 Ω and a magnetoresistance ratio of approximately 1.3% at 4 K, which persisted up to 350 K. Magnetic hysteresis appeared only when the magnetic field was applied perpendicular to the zGNR plane, confirming magnetic anisotropy. Analysis of the angular dependence of magnetoresistance indicated that the magnetic moments were oriented normal to the sample surface. The decrease in magnetoresistance with increasing source-drain bias and temperature revealed interactions between magnetic response, charge transport, and thermal vibrations.

By combining SNVM imaging with transport characterization, this study provides the first direct evidence of intrinsic magnetism in zGNRs embedded in hBN and demonstrates the potential for electric-field control of magnetic behavior. This work deepens the understanding of graphene magnetism and opens new opportunities for developing graphene-based spintronic devices.

Experience Nanoscale Magnetic Imaging with CIQTEK SNVM

CIQTEK invites researchers to experience the Scanning NV Microscope (SNVM), a world-leading nanoscale magnetic imaging system featuring a temperature range of 1.8–300 K, a 9/1/1 T vector magnetic field, 10 nm magnetic spatial resolution, and 2 μT/Hz¹ᐟ² magnetic sensitivity.

CIQTEK SNVM: the ambient version and the cryogenic version

The SNVM integrates diamond nitrogen-vacancy (NV) center-based optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) with atomic force microscopy (AFM) scanning technology. It offers high spatial resolution, superior magnetic sensitivity, multifunctional detection, and non-invasive imaging capabilities, making it an essential tool for research in magnetic domain characterization, antiferromagnetic imaging, superconductivity studies, and two-dimensional magnetic materials.

Moving from a conventional silicon-based Active Harmonic Filter to one using Silicon Carbide (SiC) MOSFETs represents a major technological leap, and the cooling system is directly impacted.

Here’s a detailed look at the cooling system of a SiC Active Harmonic Filter, highlighting how it differs from traditional IGBT-based AHFs.

The Core Advantage: Why SiC Changes the Game

Silicon Carbide is a wide-bandgap semiconductor with superior material properties compared to silicon. For an AHF, this translates into three key benefits that directly influence thermal management:

1. Higher Switching Frequencies: SiC MOSFETs can switch on and off much faster than IGBTs. This allows for a more accurate reconstruction of the "anti-harmonic" current, improving performance, especially for higher-order harmonics.

2. Lower Switching Losses: The most significant impact for cooling. The rapid switching of SiC devices generates less heat during each transition.

3. Higher Operating Temperatures: SiC semiconductors can theoretically operate at junction temperatures up to 200°C or more, compared to the typical 150°C limit for silicon IGBTs. This provides a higher safety margin.

Impact on the Cooling System

Because of the advantages above, the thermal design of a SiC AHF becomes simpler, more efficient, and more reliable.

1. Reduced Heat Load

The primary effect is that a SiC AHF generates less heat for the same output power. The lower switching and conduction losses mean there is simply less thermal energy that needs to be removed.

Result: The cooling system can be smaller, quieter, and less powerful for the same AHF rating.

2. Cooling Method Evolution

• Forced Air Cooling Becomes More Viable for Higher Power:

  • A 100A SiC AHF might be comfortably air-cooled, whereas a 100A silicon IGBT AHF might be pushing the limits of air cooling, requiring a larger, noisier fan assembly.

  • The reduced heat load means the fans can run slower, leading to quieter operation and longer fan life. The heat sinks can also be smaller.

• Liquid Cooling Becomes More about Power Density than Necessity:

  • For the highest power ratings (e.g., >300A), liquid cooling is still used, but now the driver is often extreme power density.

  • A liquid-cooled SiC AHF can be made significantly more compact than its silicon counterpart because the lower heat flux allows for a smaller liquid cooling plate and heat exchanger.

3. Increased Reliability and Lifetime

Heat is the primary enemy of electronics. By generating less heat and being able to withstand higher temperatures, SiC AHFs experience less thermal stress.

• Electrolytic Capacitors: These components are very sensitive to heat. The cooler internal environment of a SiC AHF significantly extends the lifespan of these critical (and often life-limiting) components.

• Semiconductors: Operating at a lower temperature relative to their maximum rating greatly enhances the long-term reliability of the SiC MOSFETs themselves.

• Fans (in air-cooled units): With a lower thermal load, fans run slower and for shorter durations, increasing their Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF).

Comparison: Silicon IGBT vs. SiC MOSFET AHF Cooling

Practical Implications and Benefits for the User

1. Smaller Footprint: You can get the same harmonic filtering performance from a physically smaller cabinet because the cooling apparatus is less bulky.

2. Higher Efficiency: Less energy is wasted as heat, so the SiC AHF itself consumes less power, improving your overall system efficiency. A typical SiC AHF can be 1-3% more efficient than a silicon one.

3. Reduced Maintenance: With less heat and slower-moving fans (in air-cooled models), the maintenance intervals can be longer. Air filters may not clog as quickly.

4. Reduced Downtime Risk: The higher inherent reliability and thermal ruggedness of the SiC system reduce the risk of unexpected thermal shutdowns or failures.

The adoption of Silicon Carbide technology fundamentally simplifies the cooling challenge in Active Harmonic Filters. While the cooling methods (air vs. liquid) remain the same, the systems are less stressed, more efficient, and more reliable.

When specifying a new AHF, choosing a SiC-based model is not just about better electrical performance; it's also a choice for a more robust, compact, and lower-maintenance system with a longer operational lifespan, largely due to its superior thermal characteristics.

CIQTEK continues to expand its presence in Europe with the establishment of an SEM demo station in Spain, operated by the trusted local distributor IESMAT. Located in Madrid, the demo station features a CIQTEK High-Performance and Universal Tungsten Filament SEM Microscope SEM3200, providing Spanish users with convenient access to live demonstrations, sample testing, and hands-on operation. The facility also offers professional Spanish-language service and technical consultation, helping local customers better understand and apply CIQTEK’s advanced electron microscopy technologies.

Since the installation of the CIQTEK SEM3200, IESMAT has actively organized a series of seminars and workshops throughout 2025, typically held every one to two months. These events welcome researchers and professionals from academia and industry to explore the performance and advantages of CIQTEK scanning electron microscopes through hands-on sessions and interactive learning experiences.

IESMAT SEM Workshop in January 2025

IESMAT SEM Seminar in Feb, 2025

IESMAT Most Recent SEM Seminar in Sep, 2025

The next event, IESMAT Electron Microscopy Day II, will take place on November 6, 2025, in Madrid. Participants will enjoy:

• Live hands-on electron microscopy with the CIQTEK SEM3200

• Cutting-edge analytics using EDS and EBSD

• Insights into current trends and future directions of electron microscopy in Spain

The SEM demo station at IESMAT marks an important milestone in CIQTEK’s European development strategy. It enhances local accessibility to advanced electron microscopy technologies and provides researchers with authentic, real-world experience. Through close collaboration with partners like IESMAT, CIQTEK is deepening its engagement with the European market, promoting innovation, and building stronger connections with the scientific community.

CIQTEK remains committed to empowering global users through advanced instrumentation, localized service, and continuous collaboration for scientific progress.

The CIQTEK Electron Microscope Factory serves as the company’s dedicated manufacturing and training center for electron microscopy systems. Equipped with advanced production facilities, precision assembly lines, and demonstration laboratories, the factory integrates R&D, manufacturing, quality control, and user training to ensure high performance and reliability across CIQTEK SEM, FIB-SEM, and TEM product lines.

The training was hosted by Mr. Gao, Head of the Electron Microscopy Solutions Department at CIQTEK, together with senior engineers from the CIQTEK electron microscopy team. During the program, participants received systematic instruction on key procedures such as ion pump baking, aperture position inspection, filament centering, high-resolution imaging practice, and accessory installation and calibration.

Throughout the week, the GSEM team worked closely with CIQTEK engineers to gain both theoretical and practical understanding of CIQTEK’s electron microscopy technology. The sessions were designed to ensure that GSEM’s sales and service engineers are fully equipped with the technical expertise required to support local customers in Korea, from system installation and operation to advanced troubleshooting and maintenance.

This training not only enhanced GSEM’s technical capabilities but also strengthened the partnership between CIQTEK and GSEM. With continuous collaboration in product knowledge, application support, and customer service, CIQTEK and GSEM will jointly provide more professional, efficient, and reliable solutions to the Korean electron microscopy market.

CIQTEK remains committed to empowering global partners through professional training, technical collaboration, and continuous innovation in scientific instrumentation.

2. Shuyi Technology: A Globally Recognized Expert in Digital Energy with 10 Years of Experience

• R&D System: It has industry-leading power electronics R&D centers, testing centers, and laboratories, including electromagnetic compatibility laboratories, enthalpy difference laboratories, and environmental reliability laboratories, ensuring full-process control from product design to implementation.
• Certification Guarantee: It has passed ISO9001 quality management system certification and ISO14001 environmental management system certification. Its products comply with international standards such as CE, IEC, and UL, and can meet compliance requirements in different regions around the world.
• Corporate Mission: With "digital energy technology innovation" as the core, it is committed to building a green and intelligent energy future and providing reliable digital energy infrastructure support for global customers.

3. SY-M Series Modular UPS: Core Advantages and Full-Scenario Adaptation

(1) High Reliability: Ensuring Zero Power Outage Risk in Critical Scenarios

1. N+X Redundant Design: It supports parallel operation of multiple modules. Even if a single module fails, the remaining modules can automatically take over the load to avoid power supply interruption, which is especially suitable for "zero-tolerance" scenarios such as finance and medical care.
2. Core Component Upgrade: It adopts integrated packaged IGBT modules, which have fast switching speed, low loss, and strong impact resistance, and can cope with grid voltage fluctuations and load mutations.
3. Wide Input Voltage Range: The input voltage supports 304~485VAC (full load). Even if the grid voltage fluctuates greatly (such as in remote areas or industrial scenarios), it can still output stably, reducing frequent charging and discharging of the battery and prolonging the battery life.
4. Battery Cold Start Function: In emergency situations without commercial power, the UPS can be started directly through the battery to quickly restore power supply, which is suitable for emergency scenarios of sudden power outages.

(2) Flexibility: On-Demand Expansion to Adapt to Different Installation Environments

1. Full Power Range Coverage: From 20kVA small computer rooms to 1600kVA large data centers, the SY-M series can meet the power requirements of different scenarios and avoid resource waste caused by "using a large device for a small load".
2. Modular Hot-Swap: The power modules and static bypass monitoring modules support hot-swap. Maintenance does not require shutdown, and the replacement time of a single module is only 5 minutes, which greatly reduces the risk of business interruption.
3. Multiple Installation Methods: It provides multiple installation methods such as rack-mounted (compatible with 19-inch standard cabinets), tower-type, and container-type, adapting to different site conditions such as data centers, base stations, and industrial workshops.
4. Flexible Parallel Expansion: It supports direct parallel operation of multiple UPSs. When the business grows in the later stage, the power can be increased only by adding modules without replacing the overall equipment, reducing the expansion cost.

(3) Intelligence: Remote Management and Precise Operation and Maintenance

1. Large-Screen Touch Interaction: Equipped with a 5.7-inch/10.4-inch color LCD touch screen, it supports more than 10 languages including Chinese, English, Russian, and French. It can display real-time data such as load rate, battery status, and fault information, with intuitive and convenient operation.
2. Powerful Remote Management: It is equipped with RS232 and RS485 interfaces as standard, and an SNMP network communication card is optional. It supports remote monitoring, parameter setting, and fault alarm (such as SMS alarm and email alarm), so that operation and maintenance personnel can grasp the equipment status without being on-site.
3. Intelligent Battery Management: It adopts the "three-stage charging" technology to avoid over-charging and over-discharging of the battery, prolonging the battery life (the life of lead-acid batteries can be extended by more than 20%). At the same time, it supports battery status self-test and fault early warning.
4. System Self-Diagnosis: It has built-in fault recording and historical data storage functions, which can automatically identify problems such as module faults and power grid abnormalities, and generate diagnosis reports, reducing the difficulty of operation and maintenance.

(4) High Efficiency: Green and Energy-Saving to Reduce Long-Term Operating Costs

1. Ultra-High Operating Efficiency: The efficiency is ≥95% in normal mode and up to 99% in economic mode. Compared with traditional UPS, it can reduce a large amount of power loss every year, which is especially suitable for scenarios such as data centers that "operate 24 hours a day".
2. Intelligent Sleep Mode: It automatically adjusts the number of operating modules according to the load rate. When the load is low, some modules sleep to reduce useless power consumption. For example, when the load rate is less than 40%, 50% of the modules can be turned off, and the energy efficiency is increased by 10%-15%.
3. Low Harmonic Pollution: The input power factor is >0.99, and the input harmonic current THDi is <3%, which avoids interference to the power grid, meets the environmental protection requirements of green data centers, and reduces electromagnetic interference to other equipment.

(5) Full-Scenario Adaptation: Covering More Than 10 Key Industries

• Government and Finance: Government affairs systems, bank transaction platforms, and securities servers to ensure data security and business continuity.
• Medical Industry: ICU equipment, nuclear magnetic resonance, and testing instruments to avoid medical accidents caused by power outages.
• Communication and Transportation: Base stations, rail transit signal systems, and airport dispatching centers to cope with high loads and frequent voltage fluctuations.
• Industry and Energy: Industrial automation equipment, photovoltaic energy storage systems, and power dispatching centers to adapt to harsh industrial environments.
• Education and Radio and Television: University data centers and TV station broadcasting systems to support long-term stable operation.

4. Typical Cases: How Does the SY-M Series Solve Pain Points in Actual Scenarios?

Case 1: Transformation of a Provincial People's Hospital Data Center

Case 2: Asian Logistics Data Center of a Multinational E-Commerce Company

5. How to Choose the Suitable SY-M Series Product?

6. Conclusion: Choose Shuyi SY-M to Build a Reliable Energy Guarantee

• Official Website: www.shuyidigitalpower.com
• Email: admin@shuyidigitalpower.com
• WA/Tele: +86 18155158620

Rising Demand for EPR in the U.S. Research Market

In recent years, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy has gained renewed attention across U.S. research institutions. From studying free radicals in chemistry labs to analyzing defects in battery and catalyst materials, EPR offers unique insights that other spectroscopic techniques cannot easily deliver.

As more researchers look to adopt or upgrade their EPR systems, one question comes up frequently:
“How much does an EPR spectrometer cost in the U.S. today?”

If you plan to purchase in 2025, understanding the current price range and technology landscape can help you make an informed investment decision.

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EPR Spectrometer Price Overview in the U.S. (2025 Update)

EPR prices vary widely depending on system type, frequency band, and included accessories. Here is a general look at what U.S. buyers can expect in 2025:

Several factors affect pricing, including magnet design (permanent or electromagnet), cryogenic requirements, and optional modules such as variable temperature units or rapid scan capabilities.

For many chemistry, materials, and teaching labs, a compact X-band Benchtop EPR already covers most research needs at a fraction of the traditional cost.

Benchtop EPR Spectrometer

Why U.S. Researchers Are Turning to Benchtop EPR

Benchtop EPR spectrometers have become increasingly popular in the U.S., particularly among universities, start-ups, and multi-user core facilities. The reasons are clear:

• Compact design: fits easily on a standard lab bench, no need for a dedicated EPR room.

• Low maintenance: no cryogen handling or large cooling systems required.

• Easy operation: intuitive software allows even non-specialists to collect reliable spectra.

• Cost efficiency: significant savings in both purchase price and long-term service costs.

In other words, Benchtop EPR systems make advanced spectroscopy accessible to more researchers than ever before.

CIQTEK’s Competitive Edge: Best Price for X-band EPR

As a technology-driven scientific instrument manufacturer, CIQTEK has focused on combining performance, affordability, and usability in its EPR lineup.

The CIQTEK Benchtop EPR Spectrometer delivers true X-band performance in a portable desktop configuration, ideal for both research and teaching labs.

Key advantages include:

• High sensitivity and magnetic field stability for accurate signal detection.

• Full-featured software for easy experiment setup and data analysis.

• Compact footprint and quiet operation.

• Dedicated global service and support, including growing coverage in the U.S. and worldwide.

CIQTEK’s mission is to make high-end spectroscopy accessible to every research lab, not just large facilities with extensive budgets.

Read more about CIQTEK EPR customer stories.

CIQTEK Benchtop EPR Spectrometer at Cornell University

Affordable Does Not Mean Basic: Balancing Cost and Capability

Historically, researchers had to choose between performance and affordability when purchasing an EPR spectrometer.
That trade-off is rapidly disappearing.

Modern Benchtop EPR systems, such as CIQTEK’s. use advanced digital control, stable permanent magnets, and optimized microwave design to deliver the signal-to-noise ratio, stability, and reproducibility once found only in full-size instruments.

For many U.S. labs, this means achieving publication-quality data while keeping capital costs low.
In 2025, affordable no longer means compromise; it means smarter investment.

The Smart Choice for 2025

EPR spectroscopy continues to play an essential role in chemistry, materials, and life science research across the United States.
As budgets tighten and lab space becomes more limited, Benchtop EPR spectrometers offer an ideal combination of cost, performance, and convenience.

If you are evaluating your next EPR investment, consider how CIQTEK’s X-band Benchtop EPR can help you achieve high-quality results without exceeding your budget.

CIQTEK has achieved a global milestone by completing the world’s first EPR spectrometer modernization project at Queen Mary University of London. The successful upgrade demonstrates CIQTEK’s strong technical expertise and dedication to providing efficient, high-quality services for researchers worldwide.

The project took place at Queen Mary University of London, within the School of Physical and Chemical Sciences, where the EPR research group had long relied on an aging EPR spectrometer. Over time, their system could no longer meet the demands of advanced magnetic resonance studies. Facing this challenge, the team sought a reliable and effective way to enhance their EPR capabilities without fully replacing their existing instrument.

Upon learning about CIQTEK’s comprehensive and industry-leading EPR modernization service, and after in-depth communication with the CIQTEK EPR team, the researchers identified the perfect solution. CIQTEK’s modernization approach provides a cost-effective path to extend the lifetime of existing EPR instruments while significantly improving performance through upgraded hardware, optimized control systems, and advanced functionalities such as continuous-wave (CW) EPR.

EPR Team Preparing the Shipment

In October 2025, CIQTEK’s installation and training engineers delivered a seamless, full-cycle service from shipping and on-site setup to professional user training. The modernization was completed efficiently, enabling the Queen Mary University EPR group to continue their research with a renewed and high-performance system.

CIQTEK and Queen Mary University EPR Teams

Dr. Liu, head of the EPR research team, shared his feedback after the completion of the project:

“This collaboration has far exceeded our expectations. The service efficiency was excellent, the training was thorough and well organized, and we are very satisfied with the test results. We look forward to working with CIQTEK again in the future.”

His comments perfectly reflect CIQTEK’s service principles: “Quality Service. Trusted Partner.”

We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to our UK partner, SciMed, for their valuable local support and coordination throughout the project. Their collaboration ensured smooth communication and timely progress at every stage.

About CIQTEK EPR Modernization Service

CIQTEK EPR Modernization & Upgrade Service gives existing EPR users a second life for their instruments. By replacing outdated control and detection modules with CIQTEK’s state-of-the-art technology, researchers can enjoy enhanced stability, sensitivity, and user experience comparable to new-generation spectrometers while keeping their original system platform. The service supports both continuous-wave and pulse EPR configurations and is compatible with a wide range of legacy models. Learn more about this service here. 

This successful project showcases CIQTEK’s commitment to scientific excellence, customer success, and continuous innovation in the global EPR community.

Looking ahead, CIQTEK will continue expanding its international service network and modernization solutions, empowering more researchers worldwide to revitalize their EPR systems and explore new frontiers in spin science with confidence and creativity.

• Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA): Evaluates thermal stability and can estimate pore volume in some cases.

• Water Stability Tests: Assesses structural stability in water and across different pH conditions.

• Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM): Measures crystal size and morphology, and can be combined with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) for elemental composition and distribution.

• Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy: Analyzes overall sample purity and can quantify ligand ratios in mixed-ligand MOFs.

• Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES): Determines sample purity and elemental ratios.

• Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Fourier Transform Spectroscopy (DRIFTS): Confirms the presence or absence of IR-active functional groups in the framework.

• Single-Crystal X-ray Diffraction (SCXRD): Provides precise structural information.

Below is a brief overview of sample preparation and key data analysis points for each characterization method.

1. Powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD)

PXRD determines the crystal structure and phase purity. Experimental diffraction patterns are compared with simulated patterns from single-crystal XRD data to confirm phase purity. Samples are typically measured as powders pressed into pellets or loaded into capillaries, with rotation applied during measurement to avoid preferred orientation effects. Peak broadening usually indicates small crystallite size rather than poor crystallinity.

2. Nitrogen Adsorption/Desorption Isotherms

N₂ adsorption/desorption isotherms, measured at 77 K, are used to confirm pore structure, calculate surface area and pore volume, and evaluate pore size distribution. To ensure reliable measurements, samples must be fully activated to remove solvents, and sample mass is critical — the product of sample mass (g) and specific surface area (m²/g) should typically exceed 100 m².

Surface area is calculated using the BET model. Accurate BET results depend on proper selection of the linear region of the isotherm following Rouquerol criteria. Incorrect selection can lead to several-fold deviations in surface area (Figure 2, Table 1). CIQTEK Climber series instruments feature automated BET point selection, eliminating human error and providing reliable results even for MOFs.

Figure 2. (a) Rouquerol plot indicating correct data points (left of dashed line); (b) N₂ adsorption/desorption isotherms showing intervals used for BET plots c (green) and d (pink); (c, d) BET plots with p/p₀ ranges 0.17–0.27 and 0.004–0.05, respectively. Solid lines correspond to n(m) at p/p₀ (Rouquerol criterion iii), dashed lines correspond to 1/√C + 1 (criterion iv).

Table 1. BET areas, slopes, intercepts, C constants, monolayer capacities n(m), R², 1/√C + 1, and corresponding p/p₀ values for plots c and d in Figure 2.

3. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA)

TGA evaluates thermal stability and can roughly estimate pore volume based on solvent loss. The decomposition behavior depends strongly on the carrier gas (N₂, air, O₂), which should be noted in reports. Combining TGA with variable-temperature PXRD or adsorption experiments can verify structural stability after thermal treatment.

4. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)

SEM observes crystal morphology and size, and can be combined with EDS for elemental analysis. Since MOFs are often insulating, charging artifacts can occur, usually mitigated by coating with a conductive layer (e.g., Au or Os). Accelerating voltage affects resolution and surface details: higher voltages yield clearer crystal outlines but may damage surface features. For EDS quantification, coating elements should be considered to avoid overlapping signals with target metals.

Figure 3. SEM images of PCN-222(Fe): with Os coating (a, c) and without coating (b, d), at 2 kV (a, b) and 15 kV (c, d). Scale bar: 5 μm.

5. Other Complementary Techniques

• ICP-OES/MS: Quantifies metal ratios and detects impurities or leaching; samples must be fully dissolved via acid digestion.

• NMR Spectroscopy: Dissolution NMR measures ligand ratios, residual modulators, and solvent removal; solid-state NMR probes ligand environments and molecular interactions.

• DRIFTS: Confirms characteristic functional groups in the framework and studies adsorption under gas flow or variable temperatures.

Combining multiple characterization methods provides a comprehensive view of MOFs’ structure, porosity, and composition, offering reliable support for performance analysis and mechanistic studies.

References:

1. Rouquerol, F. et al., Adsorption by Powders and Porous Solids: Principles, Methodology and Applications, Chapter 14, Academic Press, 2015.
2. Howarth, A. J. et al., Chem. Mater. 2017, 29, 26–39. DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemmater.6b02621

At ESEM 2025, CIQTEK showcased its SEM product line, including FIBSEM, FESEM, and Tungsten Filament SEM. Our booth drew interest from both biological and materials science researchers, keen to see real-sample imaging, low-voltage performance, and analytical integration.

Beyond exhibits, CIQTEK representatives engaged in technical exchange, discussing how advanced SEM tools can bolster regional research infrastructure. We emphasized our commitment to delivering high-performing instruments, competitive pricing, and local support networks to facilitate adoption in diverse labs across the region.

Impact & Outlook

The conference underscored how microscopy continues to unveil the unseen—from cellular ultrastructure to nanomaterial phenomena. For many participants, this was a rare opportunity to access a wide spectrum of imaging techniques under one roof, and to converse directly with vendors like CIQTEK.

By engaging with local scientists and institutions, CIQTEK deepens its global reach and contributes to the growth of microscopy in underrepresented regions. We look forward to continuing our support in Africa and the Middle East through instrument installations, training, and responsive service.