MCM-100 Ion Sputter Coater
The gold standard for non-conductive sample preparation.
Non-conductive samples present a significant imaging challenge in electron microscopy. When bombarded with electron beams, these samples accumulate charge, causing image artifacts and distortion. The MCM-100 is the only sputter coater in the world with a built-in rotary pump—fully self-contained and portable, requiring only electrical power.
The MCM-100 makes sputter coating fast and easy: press Start, automatic vacuum, plasma coating, and vent—all in one streamlined process. Real-time current display, user-settable coating time, and recipe save function ensure reproducible results every time. Its compact footprint and self-contained design make it the most economical and space-saving solution for SEM sample preparation.
How It Works
See the MCM-100 in action: load your sample, start the automatic cycle, and retrieve your coated specimen ready for SEM imaging.
Why Sputter Coat?
Eliminate Charging
Conductive coatings prevent charge buildup that causes image artifacts, distortion, and beam drift on non-conductive samples like polymers, ceramics, and biological specimens.
Improve Signal
Metal coatings increase secondary electron yield for higher signal-to-noise ratio and better image contrast, especially at higher magnifications.
Protect Samples
Thin metal films protect beam-sensitive samples from electron beam damage during extended imaging sessions and high-resolution work.
One-Button Operation
Fully automatic cycle: press Start and the coater handles vacuum, coating, and venting. No manual intervention required.
Precise Control
Programmable coating time and current with real-time display. Save recipes for reproducible film thickness across samples.
Self-Contained
Built-in rotary pump means no external vacuum connections. Just plug in and start coating—the most portable coater available.
MCM-100 Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Chamber Size | 120mm diameter x 65mm (H) |
| Target Electrode Size | 55mm diameter |
| Sample Table Size | 50mm diameter |
| Target Materials | Gold (Au) or Platinum (Pt) |
| Vacuum System | Built-in rotary pump |
| Operation | Automatic (Start – Vacuum – Coat – Vent) |
| Current Display | Real-time digital readout |
| Recipe Storage | User-defined time/current settings |
| Power Supply | AC 100-240V, 50/60Hz |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 180mm x 310mm x 310mm |
| Weight | <15 kg |
| Manufacturer | SEC Co. Ltd. (Korea) |
Coating Material Selection
Gold (Au)
Most common choice. Excellent conductivity, fine grain structure, and high secondary electron yield. Ideal for general SEM imaging of most sample types.
Platinum (Pt)
For high-resolution work. Finer grain size than gold for better resolution. Preferred when Au X-ray peaks interfere with EDS analysis.
Gold/Palladium (Au/Pd)
For biological samples. Smaller grain size and lower thermal effects. Often used for delicate specimens. (Available as optional target)
Applications
Sputter coating is essential for SEM imaging of non-conductive samples across many research fields:
Materials Science
Polymers, ceramics, composites, and failure analysis samples require conductive coating to prevent charging.
Life Sciences
Biological tissues, cells, and organisms need thin metal coatings for high-resolution imaging without beam damage.
Forensics
GSR particles, fibers, and trace evidence analysis benefit from gold coating for clear imaging and EDS analysis.
Geology
Minerals, fossils, and rock samples often require coating for detailed surface morphology studies.
Pharmaceuticals
Drug particles, excipients, and formulation analysis require consistent coating for particle characterization.
Nanomaterials
Nanoparticles and thin films benefit from ultra-thin platinum coatings for high-resolution imaging.
Complete Your SEM Lab
Resources
Manufacturer
The MCM-100 is manufactured by SEC Co. Ltd., Korea’s leading electron microscopy equipment manufacturer.
Visit SEC Website →Ready to Improve Your SEM Sample Prep?
Pair the MCM-100 with your SNE-Alpha for professional imaging results every time.
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