I want to do modeling of CNT network embeded in a polymer phase using SEM or TEM technique. looking for image processing softwares that can help to understand network and morphology of such type system.
I think that you have to use TEM. Because SEM is for surface analyses
Dear Khan,
You can use SEM to study your samples by performing cross-section analysis or fracture analysis. Some detail on cross-section preparation you can get in the book Polymer Microscopy ( see http://www.springer.com/chemistry/industrial+chemistry+and+chemical+engineering/book/978-0-387-72627-4 or http://books.google.com.br/books/about/Polymer_Microscopy.html?id=z9Mvjy-eLM8C&redir_esc=y).
One example on the use of SEM for polymer nanocomposites is at Chem. Mater. 1996, 8, 1375-1379.
Good luck
SEM might be a good option to create 3D images of how your nanofiller is dispersed in your polymeric matrix. But you must obtain cross-section layers. The best option is to use a Dualbeam (FIB-SEM) to obtain these layers and with the appropiate software you can get the 3D imaging. If your polymer and your nanofiller have different functional groups it will be easier to identify each phase. I'll share you something that might be similar to your problem. Good Luck!
The persistence length of CNTs inside the polymer matrix can be estimated using TEM images. Other essential parameters for modeling CNTs in polymer phase are CNTs orietation, diameter, bundle size and wt.%(vol.%). You can have a look at the below links.
Hope that helps.
http://scitation.aip.org/content/aip/journal/apl/102/20/10.1063/1.4807769
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0009261411003964
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