Microscopy (greek, mikros: small, skopein: observe) in the broader sense is the observation and examination of small and infinitesimal things in general. In the more usual narrow sense it refers to the use of a microscope. Microscopy is used in science and technology to research and develop infinitesimal components, respectively. Examples can be found in biology, medicine and nanotechnology. Roughly, one distinguishes light microscopy and electron microscopy. In light microscopy which can be divided into reflected light and transmitted light microscopy the object is examined by light beams. In electron microscopy this is done by an electron beam.

The successful use of light and electron microscopic methods depends considerably on the goal-oriented sample preparation and its adjustment to the material. Due to longtime experience particularly in native polymers the IAP disposes of excellent know-how for preparation and microscopy of polymers and polymer containing materials also in an aqueous medium.