Copper mesh, often referred to as “bare mesh,” is typically used in transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to support samples. It serves as a carrier net, commonly made of copper (copper net), but can also be crafted from materials like nickel, molybdenum, gold, or nylon, resulting in corresponding nets such as nickel net, molybdenum net, gold net, or nylon net. Primarily utilized in biological sample preparation, it pairs with a slicer to retrieve samples in a tank using the “naked net.” Available in various forms—square hole, round hole, aperture, slit, parallel, double, and other specialized nets—it meets diverse scientific research needs across materials science, biology, and other fields. Customizable options include aluminum (Al), tungsten (W), stainless steel, and other materials for specialized carrier nets based on your requirements.
Comparison of Mesh Characteristics by Material:
Copper Grids are the most commonly used, offering affordability and non-magnetic properties, though they are reactive at low pH levels.
Nickel Mesh provides stable performance and high strength but is magnetic and prone to adhesion, so antimagnetic tweezers are recommended for handling.
Gold Grids are highly inert and resistant to reactions with other materials, but their flexibility makes them prone to deformation, and they come at a higher cost.
Molybdenum Mesh features a low shrinkage coefficient, high strength, and hardness, making it ideal for high-temperature inert environment research.