ionoscopy
Ionoscopy is a term used to describe imaging techniques that rely on ions to visualize internal structures or processes. It is not a single standardized method, but a broad label for methods that employ ion beams, ion-induced emissions, or ion‑driven contrast mechanisms to produce images or chemical maps.
In materials science, ionoscopy often refers to imaging systems that use focused ion beams—such as helium ion
In analytical chemistry and surface analysis, ionoscopy can denote imaging via secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS),
In medical contexts, some uses involve ionizing radiation (protons, carbon ions, or other heavy ions) to obtain
Advantages include high spatial resolution and surface sensitivity for certain methods; limitations include damage to samples,
Related techniques include ion beam imaging, secondary ion mass spectrometry imaging, and helium ion microscopy.