A training day was held this week for CQU staff and postgraduate students with an interest in learning how to use the recently installed scanning electron microscope (SEM) located at the Process Engineering and Light Metals Centre in Gladstone.

Facilitator of the training day, Professor Richard Clegg said the aim was to give a general background in the SEM and to give some "hands-on" experience to those who were interested.

“At the end of the course, participants will effectively have an 'L' plate license to drive the SEM with some assistance and to have a good understanding of the results,” said Professor Clegg.

The SEM (JEOL JSM 6360 LA) is an excellent imaging tool that is easy to use with training.

As well as imaging, the SEM has an EDS system capable of analysing and mapping for elements from Be to U.

Participants in the course, which was supported by the Office of Research, came from Rockhampton, Bundaberg and Gladstone campuses.

The SEM was also the focus of a recent visit from senior Biology and Physics students from Heights College, Rockhampton.

The students’ science teacher, Mr Sam Fesuk is a CQU Masters of Science student and arranged the visit so the students could learn about the technology.