METHOD OF PREPARING A CRYOGENIC SAMPLE WITH IMPROVED COOLING CHARACTERISTICS

    公开(公告)号:EP4067860A1

    公开(公告)日:2022-10-05

    申请号:EP21166358.8

    申请日:2021-03-31

    申请人: FEI Company

    IPC分类号: G01N1/42 G01N1/28

    摘要: The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for preparing a cryogenic sample, whereby the sample is subjected to rapid cooling using a cryogen. A pair of conduits for transporting cryogenic fluid are provided, each of which conduits opens out into a mouthpiece, which mouthpieces are arranged to face each other across an intervening gap, wherein in said gap a sample that is provided on a substantially planar sample carrier can be received. Cryogenic fluid can be pumped through said conduits so as to concurrently flush from said mouthpieces and suddenly immerse the sample in cryogenic fluid from two opposite sides. As defined herein, at least one of said mouthpieces comprises at least two nozzle openings for evenly cooling said substantially planar sample carrier during said flushing.