Accessing local electron-beam induced temperature changes during in situ liquid-phase transmission electron microscopy

A significant electron-beam induced heating effect is demonstrated for liquid-phase transmission electron microscopy at low electron flux densities using Au nanoparticles as local nanothermometers. The obtained results are in agreement with theoretical considerations. Furthermore, the impact of beam-induced heating on radiolysis chemistry is estimated and the consequences of the effect are discussed.

Automated summary

Using Au nanoparticles as local nanothermometers, a significant electron-beam induced heating effect is demonstrated for liquid-phase transmission electron microscopy at low electron flux densities, with results in agreement with theoretical considerations. Additionally, the impact of beam-induced heating on radiolysis chemistry is estimated and the consequences of the effect are discussed.