Sep 28 2010
The University of Cambridge has released a new electron microscope in UK. The FEI Titan 3 Electron Microscope enables scientists to examine structures smaller than 0.7 Anstrom, and images that are invisible to standard microscope and naked eye.
The microscope is useful in the areas of humanitarian, environmental, and medical research.
The FEI Titan 3 will be utilized in investigating diseases including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. These disease show depositation of amyloids proteins that are very minute in length. Previously the amyloids proteins were undetectable by common methods.
The microscope will also be used in the research of energy-saving lighting, and in water purification in the developing countries, in the future. Advanced energy-saving lights will significantly minimize the carbon footprint of the United Kingdom. The study involving the usage of ultraviolet lights for destroying viruses and bacteria in water will benefit the developing countries in purifying the contaminated water supplies.
The Minister for Universities and Science, David Willetts stated that by capturing sharp images of atoms, scientists can improve their understanding of the operation of materials to offer benefits for society.