A new method of magnifying photographic images using the scanning electron microscope in the backscattered electron detection mode.

This paper describes a new method of magnifying small images in photographic film by means of a scanning electron microscope (SEM) operated in the backscattered electron detection mode. The study included tests of several types of radiographic film, transmission electron microscopy film, and black and white 35 mm film. The electron optical enlargement method is particularly useful in situations where the film sample is opaque to light and for generating enlarged images at magnifications beyond the reach of light optical enlargement methods, i.e. up to approximately 2000X with ease and rapidity in a single step. The electron optical enlargements compare favorably in contrast and detail with the enlargements made with a light microscope and with a darkroom enlarger.