Patent ID: 7426030
Filing Date: 2008-09-16
Classification: G01J,G01N

Abstract:
1. A system for investigating a sample with electromagnetic radiation comprising: a source of electromagnetic radiation and a detector of electromagnetic radiation oriented such that in use said source of electromagnetic radiation provides a beam of electromagnetic radiation at an angle of incidence to a surface of a sample, and said detector of electromagnetic radiation receives a resulting beam of electromagnetic radiation reflected therefrom; said source and detector of electromagnetic radiation being functionally associated with a common placement means, and said sample being present on a separate stage; said system further comprising means for causing relative motion between said source and detector of electromagnetic radiation as a unit, and said sample; said system further comprising interface means that provides actual or substantial slidable contact with said separate stage such that a mini-chamber is formed thereby; said system further comprising means for introducing gas into said mini-chamber; such that in use said mini-chamber is caused to access, contain or make actual or substantial slidable contact with a portion of said sample or a support therefore.