1. Introduction and overview of characterizing and preparing of micrometer particles
2. Instruction and practice in microtool fabrication
3. Instruction and practice in using fabricated micro tools
4. Instruction and practice in preparing samples for polarized light microscopy, FTIR, SEM and TEM
5. Methods for isolaton and contamination from liquids, solids, and surfaces

COURSE OBJECTIVE:
• Upon completion of this course the student will be able to isolate, mount and handle 1-100 µm sized particles from liquids, solids and surfaces for future analysis by PLM, IR, Raman, SEM and TEM, successfully.
• Given a stereomicroscope and microtools, the student will be able to operate and use them effectively in sample preparation.
• Provided with techniques helpful to the operation and use of microscopical instrumentation and microtools, the student will perform isolation, mounting and handling of micro particles precisely.
• Instructed in microtool fabrication the student will learn how to produce tools correctly to aid in the isolation, mounting and handling of micro particles.
• Equipped with instruments, microtools and techniques the student will successfully isolate particles from liquids, semi-soft solids and surfaces.

• This course is directed towards students who would like to learn the precise methods of particle isolation, mounting and manipulation.
• Professionals that must prepare, isolate, mount or manipulate particles for a wide-range of analysis techniques will benefit from attending this class.

• Detailed course manual
• Olympus SZX10 stereomicroscope for each student
• Olympus BX51 polarized light microscope

The instrumentation, materials, and supplies necessary for successful completion of classroom portion of this course will be provided by the Hooke College of Applied Sciences.  

• Undergraduate science background and analytical chemistry
• Students should be familiar with polarized light microscopy and stereomicroscopy, and micrometry as applied to microscopic specimens

Students are expected to successfully complete a variety of tasks in the form of hands-on exercises, laboratory exercises, identifications of unknowns, and quizzes. In addition, the students are required to have 100% attendance during the course, participate in class, complete a student evaluation form and pre and post course assessment forms. 

• 100 % attendance
• class participation
• completion of all course material
• completed and signed student evaluation form
• completed pre and post course assessment forms.