2.9. Scanning electron microscopy
The microstructure of cheese-like products was analyzed by
scanning electron microscopy (SEM) using an LEO1450VP equipment (Zeiss, Germany). The samples were mounted on double
sided adhesive carbon on aluminum sample holder. The micrographics were determined under VP mode (variable pressure). The
low vacuum mode of SEM is a special form, where an opening
through the column and fixed between the SEM chamber, the
chamber can be maintained (where the samples are placed) at low
vacuum at 70 Pa, while that the column remains at high vacuum
levels. In this way it is possible to see sensitive samples, biological
or water content, without dehydrating the sample and metalize
(Sammons & Marquis, 1997).