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Microscope - Steel Structure

Microscope Steel Structure - Dr Fanfu Wu


Meet the Academic

What inspired you to become a scientist?

“When I was around 11, I dreamed to have my own factory. As I grew up, I realised that I need to be scientifically strong to do manufacturing. So, I decided to become a science researcher.”

To learn more about Fanfu and his journey:

Download the transcript.

Bringing Science to Life

How do microscopes work?

An optical microscope is an instrument that can be used to observe small objects through enhanced light, even cells and microstructures. The surface of an object is magnified through lens in the microscope. These lens bends light toward the eye and makes an object appear larger than it actually is. There are other types of microscopes for material scientists to use more often; for example, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) are microscopy techniques in which a beam of electrons is used to form an image. The microscopy technology has brought the capability for material scientist to understand the structures of different materials.

Microscope could also let us understand the chain structured polymer products, for example, plastic bags are created from a repeating group of synthetic molecular known as polymers. A steel specialist could observe the microstructure of steels and relate the microstructures to the mechanical and magnetic properties. Then based on the microstructure change and electromagnetic signal change, they could design the sensors for the steels processing to achieve desired steel properties.

How to make your own microscope

Materials required:  

  • A plastic cup 
  • Clingfilm/clear plastic 
  • Rubber band 
  • Scissors 
  • Water 
  • Different materials to look at 

Step by step instructions:  

1. Carefully cut a hole in the bottom side of your plastic cup.

.

A plastic cup with part of the bottom removed
2. Cover the top of the cup with clingfilm. Make sure that this is tight. Secure it with a rubber band.
A plastic cup has transparent plastic cover

3. Place sample in the bottom of the cup. 

Green leaf is placed inside the cup
4. Pour water on top of the cling film. 
Water is poured on the transparent plastic
5. Have a look at your sample and the differences between various materials.

To explore this concept further:

  • Could you use another liquid instead of water to increase the magnification?
  • How could you improve the focus of your microscope?

Bringing Science to Life resources was created by interns: Laura Lotkowska and Seorin Park.