System for sample preparation and storage in high vacuum

The equipment is intended for samples preparation for physical measurements and surface research. Samples can be cut to desired dimensions (the system is intended for sample sizes of few millimeters), their masses can be accurately determined (with precision up to 0.1 micrograms), and electrical contacts can be made using a wire bonder. The samples can be stored in high vacuum, which prevents sensitive samples from oxidizing or reacting with moisture in the air. The system is also suitable for preparing samples for electron microscopy (SEM, TEM, EDS, etc.). It is also possible to conduct experiments and apply measurement methods where precise determination of sample mass is required or when the samples have very small masses. The wire bonder can also be used in electronics to create electrical connections or to bond electronic chips to chip carrier.

Responsible for equipment: PhD Stanislav Vrtnik
To access the research equipment, it is necessary to contact the operators and the equipment manager, who can be reached via email at stane.vrtnik@ijs.si or primoz.kozelj@ijs.si, or by visiting them in the laboratory where the equipment is located. The availability of the equipment and the time required to carry out the experiment will be checked. In case of overlapping schedules with multiple users, a queue for usage will be established. Most preparations and measurements can be completed in a very short time (such as mass measurement or using a wire bonder) and no waiting is expected for use, while others may take several days, such as cutting samples with a wire saw. High-vacuum storage operates 24/7, and additional samples can be added with prior notice.