High-Resolution EM of Colloidal Nanocrystal Growth Using Graphene Liquid Cells

Jong Min Yuk et al
DOI: 10.1126/science.1217654
Science 336, 61 (2012);



We introduce a new type of liquid cell for in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) based on
entrapment of a liquid film between layers of graphene. The graphene liquid cell facilitates

atomic-level resolution imaging while sustaining the most realistic liquid conditions achievable
under electron-beam radiation. We employ this cell to explore the mechanism of colloidal platinum
nanocrystal growth. Direct atomic-resolution imaging allows us to visualize critical steps in the process,
including site-selective coalescence, structural reshaping after coalescence, and surface faceting.