Scanning electron  microscopy (SEM) uses electrons for imaging to obtain higher magnifications and greater depth of field than light microscopes. The instruments at MEE are capable of variable-pressure, or low vacuum, SEM (VPSEM), as well as traditional high-vacuum conditions for sample observation. VPSEM is a specialized method using a variable-pressure sample chamber that allows direct evaluation of samples that are not readily examined with a traditional high-vacuum SEM. Nonconductive or vacuum sensitive samples that would typically require additional sample preparation can be directly analyzed in VPSEM without the need for additional sample preparation, such as carbon or metallic conductive coatings. This reduces both sample preparation time and distractions in microanalysis. Our laboratory also has a field emission SEM (FESEM) for critical high-magnification work and low-voltage (LVSEM) applications. Each instrument has a spacious sample chamber that can accommodate large and irregularly-shaped specimens and accessories for feature dimensional analysis and chemical microanalysis.