The investigation of magnetic domain structures in thin foils by electron microscopy

Magnetic domain structures in thin foils may be revealed in a number of ways in the transmission electron microscope. The most commonly used modes (Fresnel, Foucault, holographic, differential phase contrast and low angle diffraction) are described and intercompared. The Fresnel and Foucault modes are simple to implement but provide a mainly qualitative description of the spatial variation of induction throughout the foil. Quantitative information may be obtained from the other two imaging modes but they require more sophisticated equipment. Electron diffraction is particularly useful for studying periodic magnetic structures. Examples of the use of these, and further specialised techniques, are presented by reference to some applications of current interest within magnetism.