
ZoneSEM II & ZoneTEM II
Sample Cleaners
Gentle, effective hydrocarbon removal for cleaner SEM and TEM imaging
- UV-based cleaning with no need for chemicals or gas supplies
- Fast, damage-free removal of hydrocarbon contamination
- Touchscreen interface with recipe memory for ease and repeatability
- Dual function: clean and store samples in one device
- Vacuum-controlled cleaning to suit a range of sample types
Overview
Hydrocarbon contamination is one of the most common barriers to high-quality SEM and TEM imaging. Whether introduced during sample preparation or built up during imaging, these carbon-based residues can obscure fine details, distort data, and waste valuable time.
The Hitachi ZoneSEM II and ZoneTEM II UV-based Sample Cleaners provide a safe, efficient, and chemical-free way to remove this contamination - right at your lab bench. Using low-energy UV light and activated oxygen, these compact devices gently clean your samples without damaging delicate structures or altering surface properties.
Features and benefits
-
Gentle, chemical-free cleaning
The ZoneSEM II and ZoneTEM II cleaners use UV lamps to break down hydrocarbon bonds. In the presence of oxygen, the wavelengths used generate ozone and reactive oxygen species that oxidize hydrocarbons into volatile compounds like CO2 and H2O - safely removing them without solvents, reagents, or gas supplies.
-
Vacuum-controlled process for sample safety
The integrated pump provides an adjustable vacuum, giving users control over cleaning intensity. So you're able to optimize the process depending on your sample.
-
Easy to use, easy to repeat
A user-friendly touchscreen interface makes it simple to select and run cleaning protocols. With recipe memory, you can save and recall process settings - ideal for labs with multiple users or routine workflows.
-
Cleaning and storage in one
Both the ZoneSEM II and ZoneTEM II function as sample cleaners and storage units, helping prevent re-contamination and minimizing sample outgassing before imaging. The ZoneSEM II is designed specifically for Hitachi holders.
-
Compact, lab-friendly design
With a desktop footprint, quiet operation, and no need for gas hookups or chemical waste handling, ZONE sample cleaners are easy to integrate into any lab environment.
Applications gallery
ITO thin film on glass printed circuit board before and after ZoneSEM II cleaning

CdSe quantum dot imaged before and after ZoneTEM II cleaning

EDS mapping image of Au particles on carbon before and after ZoneSEM II cleaning
Contact us
If you would like help choosing the best SEM for your needs, or if you’re looking for advice on how to optimise your microscopy, our experts are ready to assist. Contact us today to learn how the Hitachi TM4000PlusIII can enhance your lab’s capabilities.