About This Project

This project, part of a larger project at PrakashLab, aims to make scanning electron microscopy (SEM) accessible to classrooms by creating an affordable solution. A key aspect is the development of a low-cost vacuum pump that achieves 0.02 Torr pressure. Through innovative design and cost-effective materials, this initiative seeks to overcome financial barriers. By providing hands-on SEM experience, the project aims to foster scientific curiosity and enhance STEM education.

Ask the Scientists

What is the context of this research?

The context of this project lies within the overarching goal of democratizing science by making essential tools accessible to all. Similar to the Foldscope initiative pioneered by Professor Manu Prakash, this project aims to empower millions of curious individuals with the means to explore and engage with science. It's a part of a larger movement towards frugal science, where innovative solutions are developed to bridge the gap between scientific curiosity and resource limitations. By providing affordable tools like scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to classrooms, the project seeks to inspire and enable children to delve deeper into scientific exploration, regardless of their background or resources.

What is the significance of this project?

The significance of this project lies in its potential to make scanning electron microscopy (SEM) accessible to a broader audience. An accessible SEM would allow millions more individuals to engage with it from their unique perspectives. With SEM readily available, people from diverse backgrounds can make unique observations and discoveries that may have been overlooked before. This accessibility has the power to unlock a plethora of new discoveries and innovations, as fresh perspectives and ideas are brought to light. By empowering a broader community to tinker with SEM technology, this project has the capacity to catalyze breakthroughs across various scientific disciplines, driving forward our understanding of the world and fostering innovation.

What are the goals of the project?

The goal of this project is to develop an affordable vacuum pump tailored specifically for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) applications. Our aim is to create a vacuum pump priced under $50, capable of achieving a pressure of 0.02 Torr within a chamber size of 1 liter in under 10 minutes. This endeavor seeks to overcome financial barriers and make SEM technology more accessible to educational institutions and enthusiasts, facilitating hands-on learning experiences and advancing scientific exploration.