Microscopy for Biomaterials Science

This chapter will familiarize the reader with the more common microscopy tools used in current biomaterials research. The key concepts of magnification, resolution, and contrast are first introduced and then their meaning explored in the context of light microscopy. Digital imaging is very briefly addressed. Attention then moves to the electron microscopies, specifically SEM. Finally, new developments in optical microscopy are addressed that are shattering limitations of microscopy that have inhibited progress for hundreds of years. A brief guide to some useful resources is found at the end of the chapter.