MICA FOR RESEARCH MICROSCOPY
Mica Sheets for Research and Microscopy
PRODUCTS > MICA FOR RESEARCH MICROSCOPY
WHAT IS MICA FOR RESEARCH MICROSCOPY?
Mica, particularly muscovite mica, is a cornerstone in research microscopy due to its unique properties. Its transparency, uniform thickness, and ability to cleave into ultra-thin films make it an ideal substrate for microscopic examinations. Mica’s stable, flat surface enhances the visibility of specimens, crucial for high-resolution imaging techniques such as atomic force microscopy and electron microscopy.
Researchers rely on mica for creating carbon support films, imaging particles, growing cells, and conducting thin film research. Its natural cleavage properties allow for easy preparation, offering a pristine viewing platform for detailed microscopic analysis.
APPLICATIONS
AXIM’s mica products empower researchers across various disciplines with their unique properties, finding application in:
Microscopy &
Imaging
Provides a flat, stable surface that improves clarity and accuracy in electron, optical, and cryo microscopy.
Atomic-Scale
Surface Studies
Offers an atomically smooth base for imaging nanoscale structures in AFM.
Thin Film &
Material Science
Used as a clean substrate for depositing and studying thin films.
Biological & Medical Research
Supports cell adhesion and growth with a sterile, non-reactive surface.
Mica is essential in research and microscopy for its flatness, stability, and chemical resistance. In electron and atomic force microscopy, it provides a smooth, clean surface that enhances imaging clarity and resolution. Its transparency supports optical microscopy, while its stability at low temperatures makes it ideal for cryo-TEM. Mica also serves as a reliable substrate for thin film deposition and particle analysis, and its inert surface supports consistent cell adhesion in biological studies. Across applications, mica offers precision, reliability, and versatility.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
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Feature
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Property
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Material Type
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Muscovite (Ruby) Mica
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Quality Grade
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V-1 (ASTM D-351-97)
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Transparency
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Optically Clear
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Surface Finish
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Scratch-Free, Smooth, Free from Fingerprints
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Thickness Range
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Up to 0.0001” (Ultra-Thin Films)
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Standard Widths
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610mm, 1200mm
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Cleaving Method
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Easily Peelable for Thin Film Preparation
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Temperature Stability
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High (Suitable for Electron Microscopy)
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Applications
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Carbon Support Films, Particle Imaging, Cell Growing, Thin Film Coating Research
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BENEFITS & ADVANTAGES OF MICA FOR MICROSCOPY
Enjoy unparalleled clarity, precision, and reliability in your research with Axim Mica sheets, where cutting-edge meets reliability.
- Atomic-Level Precision: Engineered for researchers who need unmatched flatness and accuracy in high-resolution applications.
- Exceptional Clarity & Transparency: Mica’s optical clarity ensures clean, detailed observations—ideal for microscopy and imaging work.
- Built to Adapt: Easily cut, shaped, or customized to fit complex setups without compromising performance.
- Stable Under Pressure: Maintains structural and thermal integrity under extreme temperatures and conditions.
- Thin Yet Tough: Splits into ultra-thin layers while remaining chemically and physically durable—perfect for film deposition, particle studies, and more.
SUPPLY FORM
AXIM specializes in offering a selection of mica tailored to various demands of the research microscopy field. While the core properties that make mica invaluable remain consistent, variations exist to cater to specific research needs:
V-1 Quality Muscovite Mica: Recognized for its exceptional clarity and minimal imperfections, this high-grade mica is perfect for applications requiring optical precision, including high-resolution atomic force microscopy.
Ruby Mica Discs, Slides, & Blocks: Offering a range from almost white, through pink, to light and dark ruby, suitable for a myriad of microscopy techniques where thickness and color might influence the study outcome.
Gold Sputtered Mica: An advanced option where a thin layer of gold is applied to the mica surface, ideal for studies needing a conductive surface. Recommended for use in applications like AFM where atomic flatness and conductivity are crucial.
Custom Cut Mica: Tailored to fit specific dimensional requirements, these are die-cut based on client specifications ensuring a perfect fit for specialized research setups or equipment.
ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE WITH AXIM MICA
Ready to move forward? Our engineering team collaborates with clients to develop optimal solutions for their specific applications, ensuring every component meets exact specifications and performance requirements.
FAQs
Mica is a mineral that belongs to a group of silicate minerals known as phyllosilicates. It is characterized by its highly perfect basal cleavage, which allows it to be split into thin sheets that are flexible, elastic, and transparent. Mica is valued for its resistance to heat, electricity, and acids.
Mica is best for applications requiring thermal insulation, electrical insulation, and resistance to chemical corrosion. It is extensively used in the electronics industry for components like capacitors and insulators, and in industries requiring high-temperature insulation materials, such as furnaces and microwave ovens.
In a microwave, a mica sheet is used as a waveguide cover. It covers the aperture through which microwaves are admitted into the main cavity of the oven. The mica sheet helps prevent food particles and moisture from entering the waveguide, which can cause damage and efficiency loss.
Mica sheets are valued for their clear visibility and effective protection from outdoor conditions, effectively blocking dust, dirt, and harsh weather. Their durability against scratches ensures they maintain quality over time, making them a reliable choice for see-through enclosures.