A technical note on a compact inert-gas suitcase for optical measurements of air-sensitive 2D materials

We have designed and manufactured a low-cost, easy-to-use, inert-gas atmosphere over-pressurized compact suitcase for storing air-sensitive 2D materials or any other air-sensitive samples, as well as performing optical microscopy, Raman, and photoluminescence measurements. We demonstrate that the leaking rate of this suitcase is 1e-7 mbar.l/s, a low enough rate to protect an air-sensitive sample stored inside for at least 4.5 days. With Raman microscopy measurements, we further demonstrate that our inert-gas suitcase can protect Cr2Ge2Te3, a well-known air-sensitive 2D material for at least 8 days from degradation. In this technical note we share the details, operation and testing of this suitcase. We have also included the technical designs and the autodesk designs so that this design can be replicated by others who need such a system.