Journal Article

The universal sample holders of microanalytical instruments of FIB, TEM, NanoSIMS, and STXM-NEXAFS for the coordinated analysis of extraterrestrial materials

Abe Masanao, Sakurai Ikuya, Imae Naoya, Yada Toru, Kodama, Yu, Okada Ikuo, Yuzawa Hayato, Karouji Yuzuru, Shirai Naoki, Uesugi Kentaro, Yamaguchi, Akira, Tomioka Naotaka, Ohigashi Takuji, Uesugi Masayuki, Ito Motoo

2020

Overview

We developed universal sample holders [the Kochi grid, Kochi clamp, and Okazaki cell) and a transfer vessel (facility-to-facility transfer container (FFTC)] to analyze sensitive and fragile samples, such as extremely small extraterrestrial materials. The holders and container prevent degradation, contamination due to the terrestrial atmosphere (water vapor and oxygen gas) and small particles, as well as mechanical sample damage. The FFTC can isolate the samples from the effects of the atmosphere for more than a week. The Kochi grid and clamp were made for a coordinated micro/nano-analysis that utilizes a focused-ion beam apparatus, transmission electron microscope, and nanoscale secondary ion mass spectrometry. The Okazaki cell was developed as an additional attachment for a scanning transmission X-ray microscope that uses near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS). These new apparatuses help to minimize possible alterations from the exposure of the samples to air. The coordinated analysis involving these holders was successfully carried out without any sample damage or loss, thereby enabling us to obtain sufficient analytical datasets of textures, crystallography, elemental/isotopic abundances, and molecular functional groups for µm-sized minerals and organics in both the Antarctic micrometeorite and a carbonaceous chondrite. We will apply the coordinated analysis to acquire the complex characteristics in samples obtained by the future spacecraft sample return mission.

• Publisher: Springer Nature B.V
• Subject: Atmosphere / Carbonaceous chondrites / Containers / Crystallography / Damage / Extraterrestrial materials / Extraterrestrial matter / Fine structure / Functional groups / Ion beams / Mass spectrometry / Micrometeorites / Oxygen / Sample holders / Sample return missions / Secondary ion mass spectrometry / Spacecraft / Spacecraft contamination / Water vapor / X ray absorption