What are the limitations of electron microscopy?

One main disadvantage is that they are unable to analyze live samples. This is because the samples are analyzed in a vacuum to avoid scattering of the electron beams in the air. Another limitation is that electron microscopes are expensive, and are high maintenance since they are highly specialized tools. They are also large in size and may weigh up to half a ton, making them difficult to transport. Only black and white images are produced, requiring false colorization when needed. Additionally, it takes an extended period of time to prepare samples. For example, in TEM the processing time takes 1-2 weeks for fixation, embedding and sectioning before it becomes ready for imaging. Lastly, artifacts may also appear in the images generated from sample preparation.