Air-Free Shuttle

Lithium-ion battery materials react quickly with air and moisture, and even brief exposure can change their surface. Conventional transfer methods preserve samples for only a short time, often require modification to SEM/FIB systems, and may compromise SEM/FIB analytical functions. The Air-Free Shuttle provides a practical solution for preserving the native microstructure of oxygen- and moisture-sensitive Li-ion battery materials during transfer between glovebox and SEM/FIB.

With a compact design, the Air-Free Shuttle fits most commercial SEM/FIB systems. All analytical functions, including FIB milling at a 52° tilt, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), remain unaffected. This patterned platform provides a practical, maintenance-free solution for preserving the native microstructure of oxygen- and moisture-sensitive Li-ion battery materials while allowing unobstructed imaging and analysis.

The Air-Free shuttle protects samples for up to 24 hours, making it suitable even for cross-country transport. It functions both as a sealed transport vessel and as a sample holder within SEM/FIB instruments. This dual role eliminates the need for additional sample handling at the destination lab. With fewer handling steps, the risks of contamination and damage are reduced.