Characterisation of ESEM conditions for specimen hydration control

The concept of 'calibrated ESEM' - the ability to determine and create the exact conditions within the ESEM required for specimen stability and/or accurate in-situ hydration/dehydration - is an attractive idea. It has the potential to allow true natural state imaging, enhanced analysis and a whole range of new and novel applications. The present work reports on the use of in-situ temperature and humidity sensors to accurately measure and characterise the conditions within an ESEM.