The primary disadvantages of Scanning Electron Microscopes (SEMs) are their high cost, size, environmental sensitivity, and maintenance requirements.
Disadvantages of SEM Microscopy
While SEMs are powerful tools for high-resolution imaging, they also present several limitations:
- High Cost: SEMs are significantly expensive, both in terms of initial purchase and ongoing operational costs.
- Large Size & Dedicated Space: SEMs are bulky instruments that require a dedicated laboratory space, free from external interference. They must be housed in an area free of possible electric, magnetic, or vibration interference.
- Environmental Sensitivity: SEMs are highly sensitive to environmental factors like electrical interference, magnetic fields, and vibrations, necessitating specialized infrastructure and careful operation.
- Maintenance Requirements: Maintaining an SEM involves ensuring a stable voltage, regulating current to electromagnetic coils, and circulating cooling water, adding to the operational complexity and cost.
In summary, while SEMs offer exceptional imaging capabilities, their high cost, size, sensitivity, and maintenance requirements present significant challenges for many researchers and institutions.
