Eurostarsproject E!6143 MiniTEM, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences

Important results from the project

The goal was to develop a table-top highly automated TEM for automatic detection, characterization and quantificaiton of nanoparticles and identification of viruses. The purpose was that a small, userfriendly TEM that can be operated remotely would make cost-effective analyses available on site - in the office, in a mobile lab or on the manufacturing plant. The goal was reached. Two table-top electron microscopes with integrated image acquisition and analysis software have been built. The instrument was launched at the International Microscopy Congress in Prague in September.

Expected long term effects

The developed table-top electron microscope offers the potential to use electronmicroscopy for analysis and diagnostics in more situations than today. It is smaller, easier to use, highly automated and does not require specially built vibration stabilized rooms and can be operated remotely. The instrument has caused great interest from both industry (pharma and chemical) and academia and hospitals. Samples have been sent to Vironova from several potential customers for evaluation of the instrument. A PhD thesis in image analysis was produced within the project.

Approach and implementation

The 3 partners hade complementing competences and areas of expertise. The project was structured in a number of workpackages. The timeplan and workpackages were carefully designed and followed throughout the project. The time estimated and planned for integration , testing and evaluation was somewhat short due to the time limit of the project Projectmeetings with all 3 partners were held twice a year, alternating between Sweden and Czech Republic, Images, samples and test results were shared among the project partners via ftp. 3 very dedicated partners made this project a success!