What is the maximum size of sample that can accommodated?
The maximum size is 10mm in diameter by 10mm in height.
Can you accommodate liquid samples for SEM-EDS?
No, because of the vacuum nature of the SEM chamber, which is suitable only for solid samples. However, the non-volatile residue of the liquid solution (dried) can be analyzed.
What type of sample do you accommodate for TEM-EDS?
Only liquid samples are accommodated for TEM analysis. It may be nanoparticles dispersed in a solution.
Do you accept bacteria/virus samples for TEM-EDS?
Yes, but it should be fixed and deactivated before sending it to our laboratory.
Do you provide analysis and service reports?
Yes, at an additional fee.
What is the average turn-around time for SEM-EDS?
The turn-around is 1 - 4 weeks upon receipt, depending on the number of samples and the volume of job orders in the laboratory.
What is the average turn-around time for TEM-EDS?
The turn-around is 2 weeks - 1.5 months upon receipt, depending on the number of samples and the volume of job orders in the laboratory.
Do you offer rush analysis?
Yes, but depending on the number of samples and client lineup. We charge twice the publish rate per image for rush samples.
Can we submit a live specimen?
No, it has to be inanimate since the sample may need to be sputter-coated (Pt or Au-Pd) to obtain an acceptable image.
What sample amount is suitable for analysis?
For liquid samples, 5 mL of solution is enough for both SEM and TEM analysis. While for SEM of powder samples, 5 mg is enough.
Do you accept purchase order (PO) and terms of payment?
No, we only accept cash/cheque deposits at the moment.
Do you accommodate and test samples on weekends and holidays?
Operating days of the laboratory are from Mon to Fri (8 am to 5 pm) and Sat (8 am to 12 noon) only. The laboratory is closed during holidays.
Do you accommodate walk-in clients in the IEM lab?
We discourage walk-in clients for testing. However, optional services like live Zoom analysis are charged at PHP 500/hr.
Do you have a preferred courier?
We do not have a preferred courier, as long as the samples are secured during transport.