Cathodoluminescence (CL)

One scan...One data set...Your CL results

Cathodoluminescence (CL) is the light emitted by specimens as a result of electron bombardment in the approximate wavelength range 160-2000nm. 400-800nm is the visible regime. Wavelengths shorter than this are in the UV, and longer than this in the infra red. CL is emitted from a generation volume after any optical absorption and internal reflection processes have taken place. It is only one of the processes by which the energy of the interaction is dissipated. X rays are much higher energy and of a characteristic value which provides a finger print of the elements present. CL is associated with much lower energy transitions. For this reason, CL is not governed by elements present and is not used as an elemental analysis technique. Rather CL is governed by other factors such as physical chemistry, opto-electronic properties, temperature, crystal structure, strain etc.

Gatan CL Products include:

MonoCL3 - high performance CL imaging and spectroscopy system
XiCLone - spectrum imaging option for MonoCL3
PanaCL - high collection efficiency CL imaging system
MiniCL - Cathodoluminescence imaging in any SEM or microprobe
DigiScan - Multi Signal Digital Imaging for SEM

To download a PDF with Technical note on High Spatial Resolution Cathodoluminescence, click here.