Microscopic techniques for characterisation of nanomaterials: A minireview

Abstract Microscopy methods have been around for decades. Since the samples being tested are becoming smaller and smaller, the field is evolving. This is true as nanomaterials have made their way into many fields of research. The techniques such as Transmission Electron Microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy and Scanning probe microscopy (SPM) have become indispensable techniques for characterizing nanomaterials. Helium ion microscopic technique can also be used as a complimentary technique along with other methods of characterisation. Microscopic methods can be used as the main tools for studying the synthesis and application of nanomaterials. In the present communication, the different types of microscopic techniques which are being used for the study of nanomaterials are discussed.