Carl Zeiss SMT, a
leading global provider of electron- and ion-beam imaging and analysis equipment,
was honored recently with a prestigious R+D 100 Award for one of the 100 most
technologically significant new products in 2008. R+D Magazine recognized Carl
Zeiss SMT's new ORION(TM) Helium-Ion-Microscope for its ability to produce images
showing features never seen before. For example, the ORION system can differentiate
clearly between materials within semiconductor device cross sections, even in
the case of extremely thin layers consisting of only a few atoms. And, as another
example, the ORION instrument allows precise imaging and measuring of carbon
nanotubes, the building blocks of the new world of nanotechnology.
Based on its resolution of surface details, its unique contrast mechanisms
and new analytical capabilities, the ORION microscope enables scientists and
researchers to understand the composition of samples and materials close to
the atomic level. This will allow new discoveries and product developments within
nanotechnology, life sciences and the semiconductor industry.
The 46th annual technology competition run by R&D Magazine evaluated entries
from various companies and industry players, research organizations and universities
around the world. The magazine’s editors and a panel of outside experts
served as judges, evaluating each entry in terms of its importance to the world
of science and research.
According to Martha Walz, editor-in-chief of R&D Magazine, “Winning
an R&D 100 Award provides a mark of excellence known to industry, government,
and academia as proof that the product is one of the most innovative ideas of
the year. We congratulate Carl Zeiss SMT, an organization that is clearly a
global leader in the creation of technology-based products that make a difference
in how we work and live.”
Dr. Nicholas P. Economou, Senior Vice President of Carl Zeiss SMT, stated,
“Our team of researchers worked for years to develop this breakthrough
microscope technology, which now is empowering scientists in a wide range of
scientific endeavors around the world. Having our efforts recognized by an industry-leading
technical journal like R&D Magazine is a great honor for our organization
and its efforts in fulfilling our commitment.”