Over the last 30 years or so, the reliance people have on electronic devices for everyday tasks has grown exponentially. Your calendar, phone, notebook, reminders, vehicle, and more, all depend heavily on different electronic devices to perform.
As time goes on, the expectations for these electronic devices does not change: exceptional performance, long lifetime, and reasonable pricing. In order to meet, and preferably improve, on these demands, research must be done to continue to scale these devices down and make them smaller. Making them smaller will:
• Improve performance as you can fit more functionality on a chip
• Reduce cost to manufacture as you can fit more die on a wafer
As smaller devices are invented, electrical characterization must be done to ensure the new configurations actually work. This is where in situ characterization in the TEM becomes important. The Fusion AX system enables quantitative electrical characterization of devices within the TEM to correlate structural changes to performance while under operation to evaluate reliability . . .
Due to the small size of devices, the TEM is the ideal platform for visually observing structural changes that can lead to improved or decreased electrical performance. Fusion AX provides an entire workflow, from sample preparation to data publication, for reproducible, quantitative data that drives continuous scaling of electronic devices.
FIB preparation for analyzing a via in a circuit
Observation of voids formed in the via, indicated by an increase in resistance once a specific voltage is reached.
EXPLORING ELECTRONIC DEVICES
With In Situ TEM
Electronic devices, a subset of hardware, manipulate electrical energy to amplify and transmit signals, making them indispensable in modern life. From phones and computers to refrigerators and thermostats, they power the gadgets and appliances we rely on daily. As our world grows increasingly dependent on these technologies, the demand for robust, reliable, smaller, and more cost-effective devices continues to surge—benefiting both manufacturers and consumers alike.
In situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) provides an invaluable platform for studying electronic devices, offering real-time analysis of device structure and electrical behavior under operating conditions at sub-nanometer resolution . . .
Barda, H. et al. (2020) , ISTFA Proceedings, 290–298
This capability allows researchers to investigate phenomena such as electromigration in interconnects, interface dynamics in heterostructures, or phase changes under applied biases, all of which influence device performance and lifespan. Insights gained through these studies are instrumental in optimizing device designs to enhance functionality and durability.
The Fusion AX: Advanced In Situ TEM Analysis for Electronics Research
Protochips’ Fusion AX in situ heating and biasing system is a uniquely designed double-tilt TEM holder designed to support diverse research applications, including materials science, nanoelectronics, semiconductors, energy materials, and catalysis. The system offers biasing and heating modalities, enabling real-time electrical, thermal, or electrothermal characterizations of samples under relevant operating conditions. By replicating these relevant environments within the vacuum of the TEM, researchers gain a deeper understanding of how nanoscale dynamics influence macroscale material behavior.
Protochips’ Fusion AX workflow solution allows researchers to isolate and study specific layers or components of electronic devices under operating conditions, enabling them to understand how nanoscale structural and functional changes contribute to device breakdown and failure over time. The intricate design of the system minimizes electrical leakage and parasitics, ensuring accurate and reliable electrical measurements down to the sub-nanoamp level.
To enhance user success, the Fusion AX workflow includes tools for critical sample preparation steps, such as FIB lamella deposition, and is supported by the intuitive AXON software for image stabilization and data management. Together, these features empower researchers to confidently analyze and innovate in the field of electronic devices, driving advancements in performance and reliability.
Want to learn more? Visit our website or contact us for more information.
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
Nelson Marthe Senior Manager - Engineering and Semiconductor Operations
Protochips is proud to spotlight Nelson Marthe, whose remarkable contributions over the past nine years have driven numerous company milestones, from process improvements to product launches. Nelson has been instrumental in advancing our mission, particularly through his leadership in developing and manufacturing the MEMS-based sample supports relied upon by customers worldwide.
Nelson’s responsibilities span several critical areas. In manufacturing and engineering, he ensures the smooth transition of products from research and development to production, while developing robust manufacturing and quality processes across all product lines.
In semiconductor operations, Nelson leads key initiatives for our manufacturing lines, contributes to new design development, and continuously enhances semiconductor processing capabilities, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, reliable products to our customers. Additionally, Nelson plays a pivotal role in new product development, leading custom projects and exploring emerging technologies to launch new cutting-edge features. His work drives rapid design iterations and establishes rigorous product testing standards that set the bar for excellence.
Over the years, Nelson has achieved numerous impactful milestones. He co-led the development of the Triton AX product, created workflows for manufacturing E-chip product lines, and spearheaded the architecture of the Customer Success Community—an online, 24/7 in situ TEM resource for customers. Nelson exemplifies Protochips’ core values of Ingenuity, Relentless Drive, and Focused on Results and has received multiple awards in recognition of his exceptional work.
Outside the office, Nelson enjoys soccer, basketball, and traveling, finding inspiration and balance in his family and personal passions. His commitment, innovation, and leadership have made him an integral part of Protochips, and we are excited to celebrate his achievements as a valued member of our team.
FEATURED PUBLICATION
Uncovering Atomic Migrations Behind Magnetic Tunnel Junction Breakdown
Published in ACS Nano
In a collaborative study by researchers at the University of Minnesota and the University of Arizona, this cutting-edge work explores Magnetic Random Access Memory (MRAM) devices using Protochips’ Fusion AX system.
As computing needs continue to expand, there is an increasing demand for more efficient and durable data storage solutions. Spintronic magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ)-based MRAM devices are proving to be a promising alternative to traditional memory, offering the potential for faster and moreenergy-efficient storage. However, a thorough understanding of these devices’ operating principles and breakdown mechanisms is crucial to their long-term reliability.
By performing in situ electrical biasing experiments within a transmission electron microscope, the authors gained valuable insights into the functioning and failure mechanisms of these advanced data storage devices. The study utilized atomic-resolution STEM to investigate two distinct breakdown processes in MTJ devices. At lower electric currents, “soft breakdown” occurs due to electromigration, creating ultrathin conductive regions within the MgO dielectric layer and along the device edges, leading to reduced resistance. At higher current levels, “complete breakdown” arises from joule heating and further electromigration, causing melting within the MTJ layers at temperatures below the materials’ typical bulk melting points.
These detailed, time-resolved STEM studies provide critical insights into the structural evolution and potential failure points of spintronic devices, increasing understanding of their operational limits and helping guide future developments.
Yun, H. et al. (2024) ACS Nano, 18, 25359–25906.
FROM CONCEPT TO CREATION
Why E-chip Manufacture Stays
In-House
At Protochips, our commitment to in-house manufacturing for our consumable E-chip devices ensures the highest standards of quality and precision in semiconductor fabrication. By maintaining control over every step of the process, we can innovate rapidly, tailor designs to meet specific customer needs, and guarantee reliability.
This approach eliminates risks associated with outsourcing, such as supply chain disruptions or inconsistent quality, which can compromise the performance of these sensitive MEMS devices.
In-house production fosters close collaboration between engineering, manufacturing, and R&D, driving continuous improvement.
We have an entire team dedicated to design and manufacture, and below you see them hard at work in our clean room at NNF within North Carolina State University.
FEATURED WEBINAR
FUSION AX: Amp Up Your Devices
Studying Electronic Devices with In Situ TEM
Dr. Zayna King Products Specialist, Protochips
Watch this Webinar!
Dr. John Damiano CTO, Protochips
We were thrilled to kick off the ‘Amp Up Your Devices’ webinar series with an insightful session led by our own Dr. Zayna King and Dr. John Damiano. This inaugural webinar spotlighted the Fusion AX as a comprehensive in situ TEM solution tailored for the electrical and electrothermal characterization of a wide range of materials, including nanoelectronics, semiconductor devices, and various 2D materials.
FEATURED FLASH TALK
Insights into the Nucleation and Growth of BiOCL Nanoparticles by In Situ X-ray Pair
Distribution Function Analysis and In Situ Liquid Cell TEM
Dr. Matthew N. Gordon Indiana University and University of Copenhagen
Watch this Flash Talk!
Watch this Flash Talk!
Our latest Flash Talk explores a new method to control the synthesis of bismuth oxyhalides, materials valuable in energy and environmental applications. When employing traditional synthesis methods, bismuth oxychloride (BiOCl) forms rapidly in solution, limiting control over its structure. Using a unique single-source precursor, Dr. Matt Gordon, from the University of Indiana, in collaboration with Copenhagen University, successfully slowed the growth of BiOCl, allowing for in-depth in situ liquid phase analysis.
Through a combination of X-ray total scattering and liquid cell TEM, using the Poseidon AX system, this approach provides a new window into the growth dynamics of BiOCl. Notably, the study reveals continuous BiOCl formation without distinct intermediates, improving our understanding of its growth mechanism and providing insight into potential design strategies for these nanostructures.
Do you want your own flash talk recording of a recently published paper? Contact us directly via contact@protochips.com!
Gordon, M. N, et al. (2024). Insights
WHERE HAVE WE BEEN?
1) Protochips takes Copenhagen, EMC 2024, Denmark 2) Joe Sanguedolce at FEMMS 2024, Italy 3) Nick Casaburri at JHU 4) Product Management enjoying fresh smoothies in Honolulu 5) Tenet Liu at JOEL User Meeting;Oct-2024, Japan 6) Gianvito Arpino (Emme3) featuring Protochips at EMC 2024 7) Kate Stephens, Zayna King, Jen McConnell at ECS PRiME 2024, Hawaii 8) Protochips introduces Triton at EM China 9) Yaofeng Guo, Simon Ma and David Nackashi at EM China 2024
THE ELECTROCHEMICAL SOCIETY: PRiME 2024
As shown in image 7
In October, we attended the Pacific Rim Meeting on Electrochemical and Solid State Science (PRiME), which is a joint meeting of the Electrochemical Society (ECS), The Electrochemical Society of Japan (ECSJ), and the Korean Electrochemical Society (KECS). Held in beautiful Honolulu, Hawaii, the conference was incredibly well attended from the three major regions and there were over 5,000 scheduled technical presentations. Our new Triton AX, the heating and cooling electrochemical cell for TEM, was the primary focus of many conversations as scientists in battery, electrocatalysis, and corrosion were looking for nanoscale analysis techniques to help drive research and development efforts. Dr. Zayna King, Dr. Kate Stephens, and Jennifer McConnell attended on Protochips’ behalf and truly enjoyed meeting so many new faces in the exhibit hall.
SPECION
Bringing Scientific Innovation to the Czech Republic
Protochips is excited to shine the spotlight on Specion, our distinguished channel partner based in the Czech Republic. With over 30 years of experience, Specion has built an excellent reputation as a trusted distributor of scientific equipment.
Headquartered in Prague with a secondary office in Brno, Specion seamlessly blends the fresh energy of a dynamic young team with the expertise and legacy of a well-established company. Representing more than 15 of world’s leading suppliers, Specion offers an impressive range of solutions, from industrial test equipment to advanced materials characterization and innovative technologies for biological and life science applications.
What truly sets Specion apart is their unwavering commitment to customer success. Their extensive network and strong market relationships are backed by a dedicated team of sales professionals and in-house service experts, ensuring customer satisfaction well beyond purchase and installation.
Protochips is proud to partner with Specion to deliver cutting-edge in situ TEM solutions to scientists and researchers in the Czech Republic and we look forward to the positive impact this partnership will continue to create!
UPDATES TO SUCCESS COMMUNITY
As part of our commitment to fostering our users’ success, both with our products and their research priorities, one of our biggest initiatives for 2024 has been the launch and development of the Protochips’ Success Community, our online user resource.
Access to the Success Community is free and in it you’ll find a wealth of resources including User Guides & Workflows, Webinars & Flash Talks on a wide range of in situ TEM topics, Software Downloads & Tutorials, Troubleshooting, and answer to FAQs. New content is added regularly, and the online format means that we can seamlessly update and improve our existing guides on a much faster basis, so if you aren’t a frequent visitor, here are some key articles and updates added since our last Newsletter.
NEW ARTICLES
Triton AX (Episode 1): A Heating & Cooling Liquid Electrochemistry System for TEM
Webinar presented by Protochips’ Application Scientist, Kate Stephens, introducing the features and capabilities of Protochips’ Triton AX, a solution for conducting temperature-controlled liquid electrochemistry studies.
Flash Talk 22: Exploiting LC-TEM to Investigate Phenomena at the Anode/ Electrolyte Interface in Li-Ion Batteries
Dr. Walid Dachraoui, from EMPA - Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, presents his latest publication results using the Protochips’ Poseidon system to study nano-batteries.
Introduction to Liquid Cell E-chips 1,3
We’ve updated our existing guide so that it covers both Poseidon and Triton products, including which E-chips are compatible with both systems, updated images and direct links to even more E-chip resources.
Poseidon & Triton E-chip Ordering Guides 1,3
Updated E-chip Ordering guides are now available for both Triton and Poseidon E-chips.
Fusion Electrical Test E-chips 2,3
This guide describes how to use the electrical test E-chips, also called Open/ Short E-chips, to test the electrical connectivity in the Fusion TEM holder.
Liquid-Cell TEM: E-chip Specification Guide 1,3
This guide features detailed information on all commercially released Protochips’ liquid-cell E-chips (including those that have been discontinued). Organized by E-chip catalogue number, each E-chip links to a dedicated article that contains detailed information including figures, dimensions and other specifications Don’t want to spend time searching through the guide for the E-chip you are looking for? simply type the E-chip part number into the Success Community search bar and you’ll be directed to the dedicated link to that E-chip.
How to Perform 2- and 4- Point Probe
Fusion Electrical Measurements 2,3
A step-by-step guide to using the diagnostic, 6-Lead Electrothermal Test E-chip to replicate an electrical sample for performing 2-point and 4-point probe electrical measurements.
1 Available to registered Poseidon & Triton Users
2 Available to Registered Fusion & Aduro Users
3 If you are a Poseidon, Fusion, Atmosphere or AXON user or collaborator and you cannot access an article on that topic, please send a message to support@protochips.com so that we can update your account permissions.
CUSTOMER TESTIMONIALS
Dr. Tolga Wagner Humbolt University, Berlin, Germany
Protochips’ RF-biasing holder has been a game-changer, allowing us to capture the ultrafast processes in switching nano devices with the precision we needed. Their customer support and the expertise of their application scientists were key in adapting the holder for our specific needs. I’m genuinely grateful for their ongoing support and collaboration over the years.
Dr.
Adrián
Pedrazo-Tardajos
The Rosalind Franklin Institute, UK
Dr. Brian Caffrey
The Rosalind Franklin Institute, UK
We’re incredibly thankful to Protochips for developing the EM processing software, AXON StudioTM. Our research centres on imaging extremely beam-sensitive biological specimens in liquid, and this software has been instrumental in our work. It allowed us to monitor the imaging fluence live, helping us identify regions of our samples previously untouched by the electron beam.
AXON Studio also provided a detailed fluence history of each sample, enabling us to confidently and accurately measure the sample fluence to within 0.01 e-/Å2. However, its most significant contribution came after data acquisition. Usually, through standard peer-review processes, a referee will challenge a finding or suggest an experiment that hadn’t initially occurred to us, often leading to additional experiments. Thanks to AXON’s inherent recordings of all our sessions, we could easily review our acquisition dataset in AXON Studio and answer most of the referees’ questions without having to start a fresh acquisition. This saved us valuable time, both in terms of personnel time and instrument usage. Moreover, the indexed data from AXON made it easy to identify, revisit and publish multiple instances of an observed phenomenon, demonstrating our observations’ reproducibility across various acquisitions.
Finally, we shared links to our AXON Studio files along with our manuscript, making our observations available to the scientific community and providing datasets for potential future studies in fluence mitigation and segmentation strategies. Since the AXON Studio software is free of charge, and available for both native WindowsTM and AppleTM operating systems, researchers from anywhere in the world can take advantage of learnings from our work and have a full account of the exact recipe of conditions that led us to our conclusions.
UPCOMING EVENTS
AMPC13
Brisbane, Australia
February 2nd - 7th, 2025
NCCC
Delft, Netherlands
March 10th - 12th, 2025
TMS2025 Annual Meeting
Las Vegas, USA
March 23rd - 27th, 2025
ACS Spring 2025
San Diego, USA
March 23rd - 27th, 2025
WHERE ARE WE BASED?
MRS Spring 2025
Seattle, USA
April 7th - 11th, 2025
AMERICAS
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA, USA Protochips HQ, Service
SOUTH CAROLINA, USA Applications
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA Sales
AUSTIN, TEXAS Sales
ATLANTA, GEORGIA Sales
EMEA
UTRECHT, NETHERLANDS Applications
BERLIN, GERMANY Service
LONDON, ENGLAND Sales
ASIA
SHANGHAI, CHINA Service
TOKYO, JAPAN Applications
DISTRIBUTORS
CLICK HERE TO FIND OUR DISTRIBUTORS ON THE WEBSITE
THIS NEWSLETTER IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY
Nynke A. Krans Regional Applications and Marketing Manager
I started working at Protochips in 2021 and have enjoyed every moment so far. My background is in catalysis, liquid cell TEM and I expand my knowledge by talking to users in the field. I love learning new and weird things, that’s why I do pole dancing, cooking and playing with my pet rats on the weekends!
Jennifer McConnell Senior Manager, Marketing and Product Management
I have been working at Protochips for 6 years as a product manager and recently acquired the marketing team. My background is in chemistry and I previously worked as a forensic chemist for the US government. I love hiking, especially in the mountains despite being scared of heights!
Madeline Dukes Senior Application Scientist and Training Specialist
I have been at Protochips almost 15 years after completing my PhD with Dr. Niels de Jonge. I have had a front row seat to growth and development of both the field and Protochips as a company. I enjoy collecting vintage dolls and crafting miniature clothing and accessories.
Zayna King Product Specialist
I started working at Protochips in early 2023 and have loved every minute of it ever since. I earned a doctoral degree in Cell Biology from UNC-Chapel Hill, after working in the biotech industry. I enjoy traveling, reading, and trying new cuisines but visiting my family in Saint Lucia will always be at the top of my list!
Maddie DeGroodt Marketing and Graphic Design Specialist
I recently started working a Protochips and am excited for what’s to come! I graduated in the spring from North Carolina State University with a degree in Biology and Science Visual Communication with a minor in Business. I enjoy painting and making art in my free time!
