For external companies the scientists of the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymer Research offer different microscopic methods for analysis of morphology and structures of materials.
Microscopy (greek, mikros: small, skopein: observe) in the broader sense is the
observation and examination of small and infinitesimal things in general. In the more
usual narrow sense it refers to the use of a microscope. Microscopy is used in science
and technology to research and develop infinitesimal components, respectively.
Examples can be found in biology, medicine and nanotechnology. Roughly, one
distinguishes light microscopy and electron microscopy. In light microscopy which can
be divided into reflected light and transmitted light microscopy the object is examined
by light beams. In electron microscopy this is done by an electron beam.
The successful use of light and electron microscopic methods depends considerably on the
goal-oriented sample preparation and its adjustment to the material. Due to longtime
experience particularly in native polymers the IAP disposes of excellent know-how for
preparation and microscopy of polymers and polymer containing materials also in an
aqueous medium.