NanoSIMS
The NanoSIMS is a SIMS instrument that has been optimised for measurements with high spatial resolution – the primary beam is focused down to a small spot, in the range of 50 nm. As a result, the NanoSIMS is primarily used as a tool for imaging and mapping. Elemental and isotopic images can be generated by scanning or rastering the beam over areas of a sample. The instrument has multiple detectors, allowing the spatial distribution of different elements or isotopes to be visualised simultaneously. The strength of the NanoSIMS lies in its combination of excellent sensitivity, spatial resolution, and high mass resolution.
Our services
Our experienced team have assisted many research projects from inception through to output – be that scientific publication or a detailed commercial report. Every project is unique in some way and will pose a different set of challenges (see below).
Sample preparation
Correct preparation of samples is the single most important part of successful and meaningful NanoSIMS analysis. This includes how the samples are physically prepared and also the need for suitable controls. Samples need to be flat, conductive, dry and able to withstand high vacuum. How this is achieved will depend upon the sample of interest and will differ between projects, i.e., a meteorite samples will differ substantially to a cell line labelled with an isotopically enriched tracer. We suggest contacting us for advice or consulting publications focused on analogous sample types.
Data analysis and interpretation
We constantly monitor data during analysis so as to provide consistent high quality results. Once happy with the ‘raw’ data, we will guide users through data analysis processes to generate the output they desire. Generating, processing and displaying data differs for every project, so it is our goal to provide the tools appropriate to best achieve desired outcomes. For ease of use, we recommend using the OpenMIMS plugin associated with Image J software for initial data extraction and analysis (see Useful links).
What can NanoSIMS do?
Combining stable isotope labelling with NanoSIMS allows us to directly visualise the distribution of labelled components within an experimental system, without changing the system's chemical nature. For example, 15N and 13C labels can be attached to specific molecules used in biological systems (which has applications for nutrient tracking and drug delivery), and deuterated 18O labelled water may be used to investigate mineral-fluid interactions. Furthermore, isotopic labels can be conjugated to specific antibodies or oligonucleotides to identify specific proteins or species of bacteria respectively.
Distribution of synthetic RNA in various tissue
Medical
One of the potentials of NanoSIMS analysis in medical research is highlighted in the schematic on the left. A bromine labelled nucleic acid based therapeutic (modified antisense oligonucleotide, or ASO) is ingested by a mouse, and the distribution of ASO in various tissue types is observed by NanoSIMS at the subcellular level. These results show that NanoSIMS imaging reveals, with both high sensitivity and high spatial resolution, the distribution of ASOs in both cultured cells and in the tissues of mice.
Environmental
NanoSIMS analysis has proven very useful for studying environmental processes, both biotic (concerning living organisms in an ecosystem, such as plants and bacteria) and abiotic (non-living ecosystem components, such as soil). The ability to observe the presence of natural elements and isotopes, as well as introduced isotope tracers, has been employed in studies in a diverse range of fields, from marine biology to cosmochemistry.
On the right, are NanoSIMS images comparing nitrate uptake (24 hours incubation with 15NO3) by coral (Stylophora pistillata) and its algal symbiont growing at normal temperature (top) and growing in heat stressed conditions (bottom; after 10 days). The left images are 12C14N ion images, useful for ultrastructural detail; the right images are 15N/14N ratio images showing points of 15N enrichment (0.37 atom % is natural abundance).
Geology
NanoSIMS analysis has proved to be a versatile technique to investigate microscale elemental and isotopic profiling of a wide range of sample types. The example on the right, of ancient pyrite grains, demonstrates how elemental (top) and isotopic (bottom) information can be extracted from very small samples at very high resolution. Studying this beautifully zoned pyrite provides us with insight into the conditions in which it formed, as well as information about the system that supported microbial life on the early Earth.
NanoSIMS reveals the complexities present within the pyrite grain, by providing images of the distribution of elements within the sample at nanoscale-resolution.
Materials science
NanoSIMS has been used to study a range of problems in materials sciences, such as dopant and contamination effects in semiconductors, hydrogen damage in steels, oxidation and corrosion, crack and defect evolution, as well as diffusion and segregation processes. Depth profiles can also be generated, providing information about chemical variations as a function of depth from the surface. This information is highly useful for the analysis of thin films and layered structures, such as those found in semiconductor devices.
On the right, we see a NanoSIMS map of a steel alloy produced by strip-casting. NanoSIMS reveals information about the segregation of substitutional solute elements during the solidification process.
Can't find what you're looking for?
FAQ
-
Where do I start?
- Define a clear aim or hypothesis for your research.
- Consult the literature for analogous analyses and understand the science and potential of NanoSIMS.
- Determine if NanoSIMS is the right method for your research.
- Contact us at any stage with your ideas—we have extensive experience and are here to help.
-
How do I prepare my samples?
Sample preparation depends on the type of sample and your research aims. NanoSIMS-ready samples should have a flat surface, be conductive (they can be metal-coated), and be able to withstand high vacuum (i.e., dry). We offer a range of sample holders for thin silicon wafers (ideal for mounting resin-embedded sections), polished resin discs (10, 12, 15 mm in diameter), TEM grids, or square microscope slides.
-
What is the wait time until analysisThe wait time is typically a few weeks to a few months from the receipt of samples. This depends on instrument demand, project size, and instrument maintenance or downtime.
-
How long will analysis take?
The duration of analysis depends on various factors, such as the number of samples, replication, sample size, ion concentrations, matrix effects, and standard requirements. We will use our experience to guide you based on your specific requirements.
-
Can I be present during analysis
Yes. Although all analyses are performed by in-house staff due to the complexity of NanoSIMS operation, we welcome your presence. Being present can help in selecting specific analysis areas or tweaking experimental plans. Alternatively, if you cannot be present, you can send your samples to us, and we will analyse them after consultation with you. Another option is to attend the start of the analysis and leave when you're satisfied that everything is proceeding well.
-
How much does analysis cost?
Researchers from academic institutions (UWA, other Australian universities, and international universities) all pay $1,200 plus GST per day. The minimum usage is one day, but most projects tend to occur over week-long blocks.
Our instruments
The University of Western Australia houses the only NanoSIMS instruments in Australia.
NanoSIMS 50
The Ion Microprobe is an advanced instrument used for ultra fine feature analysis in materials, geology,
planetary and life sciences.
NanoSIMS-HR
Coming in 2025, this instrument is the next frontier in nanoanalysis for science and high technology.
- CAMECA NanoSIMS-HR
Platform experts
Senior Research Officer, Centre for Microscopy, Characterisation & Analysis
Dr Laure Martin
Senior Lecturer (SIMS), Centre for Microscopy, Characterisation & Analysis