University Chemistry ›› 2026, Vol. 41 ›› Issue (6): 196-203.doi: 10.12461/PKU.DXHX202511180

Special Issue:

• Special Subject • Previous Articles    

Development and teaching design of astigmatic displacement microscopy: a recommended experiment for chemical metrology (micro-nano advanced characterization)

Dan Zhou1, Xinyue Liu1, Zijing Guo1, Jianping Yang1, Zeying Guo1, Zhuoer Ren1, E Yu2, Ting Pan1, Doudou Ren1, Zhicong Zeng1   

  1. 1 State Key Laboratory of Natural Product Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, Gansu Province, China;
    2 National Demonstration Center for Experimental Chemistry Education (Lanzhou University), Lanzhou 730000, Gansu Province
  • Received:2025-11-25 Accepted:2026-02-06 Published:2026-06-18
  • Contact: Ting Pan, Doudou Ren, Zhicong Zeng E-mail:pant20@lzu.edu.cn;120220905140@lzu.edu.cn;zengzc@lzu.edu.cn

Abstract: In current undergraduate laboratory curricula concerning micro-nano characterization, scanning probe microscopy and scanning electron microscopy are predominantly employed, while non-contact optical measurement techniques remain underrepresented. Astigmatic displacement microscopy (ADM) represents an innovative technique based on astigmatism measurement, offering distinct advantages including non-contact operation, extensive scanning range, rapid imaging speed, and axial nanometer-scale resolution. To incorporate this advanced technology into the “101 Plan” chemical metrology experiments, we have independently developed a customized ADM instrument specifically designed for instructional purposes and established a comprehensive experimental teaching protocol. This experiment integrates interdisciplinary knowledge from chemistry, optics, electronics, and micro-nano characterization. Through four modular components—displacement signal calibration, three-dimensional imaging, vibration analysis, and film thickness measurement—the curriculum aims to stimulate students’ critical thinking regarding cutting-edge developments in micro-nano characterization, enhance their understanding of the significance of high-precision characterization technologies in advanced manufacturing, and foster confidence in domestic instrument innovation through hands-on practice, thereby cultivating specialized talent in instrumentation.

Key words: Chemical metrology experiments, Astigmatic displacement microscopy, Micro-nano characterization, Teaching instrument, Instrument development