The project aims to develop an interoperable platform consisting of both hardware and software components based on a modular and standardized cartridge concept.
The cartridges are designed to be inserted in an automated or semi-automated way into TEM specimen and aperture holders, as well as other instruments for preparation and characterization, including surface science tools, transport measurements, microfocus X-ray tomography instruments, and synchrotrons.
They provide the flexibility for samples to be cooled, heated, in vacuum, or in an inert gas across different methods and analytical techniques, while ensuring sample cleanliness is maintained.
The advanced TEM instrumentation developed in IMPRESS aims to be highly user-friendly, adaptable and accessible to a wide range of scientific communities thanks to open standards, open components, open interfaces and open knowledge.
To ensure compatibility and facilitate integration with analytical tools.
To enable the creation of customized TEM arrangements.
To allow for a seamless exchange of components and data between TEM instruments.
To boost sharing, drive innovation and promote progress.
Overcome the limitations of current state-of-the-art TEM technology.
Users and operators will be able to plan, design and carry out correlative experiments by easily transferring specimens from TEMs to other instruments and vice versa.
The IMPRESS platform, based on open standards, will be adaptable to the requirements of users from different scientific domains.
The IMPRESS cartridge will be transferrable between different segments of the electron microscope and across different instrumentation.
The IMPRESS cartridge-based system will allow for seamless TEM operability.
with enhanced beam properties and electron optical performance
for advanced imaging and spectroscopy
for in situ/operando experiments with multiple stimuli
for simulation capabilities and automation of experiments
Our approach to design and deliver TEM instrumentation conceived at the highest level of open standards and interoperability.
among partners and with external stakeholders.
An Open Market Consultation will be an essential forum to exchange ideas and explore solutions.
Development of the e-CAT cartridge prototypes through a competitive tender process to compare alternative proposals and find the best solutions to scientific challenges.
to gain proficiency in the enhanced TEM capabilities developed within the IMPRESS project.