The first Russian atomic tomograph "AtoTom," which allows studying the structure of materials at the atomic level, was developed and successfully tested by specialists from NRNU MEPhI and NRC "Kurchatov Institute." The installation is completely Russian — from components to software, reports the press service of MEPhI. The new product is 2 times cheaper than the American equipment AMETEK (CAMECA) with similar characteristics.
Why is an atomic tomograph needed?
"AtoTom" helps to see the atomic structure of materials in 3D. A microscopic sample is placed in the device — a "hair" with a diameter of 0.3–0.4 mm and a length of 15–20 mm. Laser pulses evaporate it literally one or two atoms at a time, and a mass spectrometer determines the chemical composition of each evaporated layer. The computer collects data into a three-dimensional map of the location of atoms.
Similar installations in the world are produced by only one American company, which has stopped deliveries to Russia and maintenance. The MEPhI development closes this niche.
The installation is already ready for operation. It can be used by materials science centers of Rosatom, metallurgical and industrial companies. In the future, it is planned to establish mass production.
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