Sample preparation method for 3D size measurements of polystyrene nanoparticles with nominal 30, 50, 70 and 100 nm diameters by electron tomography

We developed a sample preparation method for 3D electron tomography using a focus-ion-beam-fabricated carbon square-shaped rod to observe the deformation of polystyrene nanoparticles on carbon. The method enables the observation of the interface between the particles and carbon substrate. Polystyrene nanoparticles are increasingly more deformed as their nominal diameter decreases. Our results indicate that electron tomography is a useful approach to correct results from conventional TEM measurements for soft particles. (technical note)