UNN’s ACE-SPED unveils modern SEM lab, pioneering advanced material analysis in Nigeria Universities

This advanced equipment enhances the centre’s Material Characterisation Laboratory, making it one of the few fully equipped SEM facilities in any Nigerian university.

The SEM machine is equipped to conduct both qualitative and quantitative analyses, capture images, perform image-centric analysis, and execute X-ray spectral mapping and line scanning with a Back Scattered Electron Detector.

Its remarkable functionality allows for thorough analysis, visualization, and quantification of microstructures.

In a statement on Monday, ACE-SPED Director, Professor Emenike Ejiogu, noted that the acquisition aligns with the centre’s sustainability goals, “enabling advanced research in energy and power; enhanced material characterization capabilities; increased collaboration and innovation and capacity building for students and researchers.”

He averred that this investment strengthens ACE-SPED’s position as a leading hub for sustainable energy research and development in Africa.

“While our staff and students will benefit from the capabilities of the equipment, we are also open to doing business with researchers and other entities.”

He explained that the SEM machine has provided opportunities for researchers and industries to conduct their analyses within Nigeria, thereby eliminating the burden of spending a substantial amount of dollars overseas.

The equipment, which has a powerful SEM and EDS combination, holds significant value across various sectors, particularly for industries relying heavily on SEM analysis.

The Industrial Liaison Officer of ACE-SPED, Prof. Victor Aigbodion, identified numerous industries that could benefit from the services offered by the advanced equipment

They include sectors involved in quality control, failure analysis, nanowires for gas sensing, semiconductor inspection, microchip assembly, analysis of gunshot residue, jewellery examination, bullet marking comparison, handwriting and print analysis, examination of banknote authenticity, paint particle and fibre analysis, among others.

Aigbodion urged researchers and industries to leverage the facility by submitting their samples for analysis, emphasizing that the services typically sought abroad are now available at ACE-SPED.

The installation of the SEM equipment also involved the training of laboratory technicians at ACE-SPED. The trainees, who underwent specialized training on optimal utilization of the equipment, concluded their training on Friday.

One of the trainers, Muhammad Couller, from South Africa, described the equipment as a high-tech machine that comes with a one-year warranty and a projected average lifespan of at least a decade with proper maintenance.

He said that his team will provide any necessary servicing as may be requested by ACE-SPED even after the warranty has elapsed.

Other equipment of the Materials Characterization Laboratory include, FTIR, XRF and XRD needed for the characterization of energy materials and other high-tech materials, such as lithium ore, and cobalt, among others.