Abstract:Electron probe micro-analyzer has the characteristics of micro-area, in-situ, non-destructive, fast analysis speed, wide range of elements analyzed and high accuracy in quantitative analysis. It is the primary technical means for quantitative analysis of the elemental composition in situ at the micro-area of solid materials. It is widely applied in various fields, including materials, geology, metallurgy, mining, electronics, biology, archaeology and space science. However, electron probe micro-analyzer has long relied on imports, and has a risk of dependence. In this paper, historical development of electron probe micro-analyzer has been reviewed, present condition of domestic and foreign electron probe micro-analyzer development have been summarized, the problems and shortcomings of electron probe micro-analyzer development in China have been identified, and the development trends in electron probe micro-analyzer has been pointed out. It will provide valuable insights for the research and development of electron probe micro-analyzer in China.