Extending cryo-electron microscopy beyond water

Scientists have developed a capability to directly observe materials dispersed in organic solvents using cryo-electron microscopy, overcoming a major technical challenge that previously limited understanding of how microscopic structures influence performance in advanced technologies like paints, catalysts, and drug-delivery systems.

This does not prove immediate commercial applications or that all organic solvent systems can be imaged equally well; further refinement and validation across different material types may be needed.