Abstract
In this paper, we present a recently upgraded 7-degree-of-freedom nanomanipulation system inside a TEM with focus on applications in electron tomography of nanostructures. Previously it has been emphasised that the traditional way of mounting of nanoparticles on flat carbon films might not be the best way to achieve very high tilt angle series free of missing wedge for tomography. Mounting of particles ex-situ at the end of nanotips allows for higher tilt but poses challenges in the success rate of getting the object attached to the very tip. Our mixed translation & rotation nanomanipulator based on 3 coarse positioners in x, y, z by piezoelectric slip-stick actuation and 3 fine directions by a piezo-tube, as well as a rotational piezodrive, allows not only to rotate a cylindrical object by up to a full circle, but now also features a second specimen mount for a "fixed sample", which could host a reservoir of nanoparticles on carbon film, or nanoparticles inside nanopores. The translation system can then be used to pick up particles on demand and rotate them with the piezoelectric actuator. In particular, we describe how nanoparticles dispersed and transferred onto a normal TEM grid are picked up by a W tip for subsequent large tilt rotation.