Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), also known as Scanning Force Microscopy, is a highly sensitive and non-invasive technique used to visualize the surface topography of materials at the nanoscale. Developed in the late 1980s by Binnig and Quate, AFM has revolutionized the field of microscopy and has found applications in various disciplines, including physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering.
AFM operates on the principle of "touching" the surface of a sample with a sharp probe, typically made of silicon or silicon nitride. The probe is attached to a cantilever that bends when it comes into contact with the sample's surface. This bending is measured using a laser interferometer, and the data are used to create an image of the sample's surface.
AFM has found applications in various fields:
If you're interested in purchasing an AFM system for research or industrial applications, consider the following factors:
Some AFM manufacturers to consider include:
When selecting an AFM system, consult with experts in the field to ensure you choose a system that meets your specific needs and budget.
Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), also known as Scanning Force Microscopy, is a highly sensitive and non-invasive technique used to visualize the surface topography of materials at the nanoscale.
AFM can resolve features as small as 0.1 nm, is non-invasive, and can be used to study a wide range of materials, including metals, semiconductors, polymers, and biomolecules.
AFM operates on the principle of "touching" the surface of a sample with a sharp probe, typically made of silicon or silicon nitride. The probe is attached to a cantilever that bends when it comes into contact with the sample's surface.
AFM has found applications in various fields, including materials science, biology, semiconductor industry, and forensic science.
AFM is used to study material properties, such as hardness, adhesion, and tribology.
When purchasing an AFM system, consider the resolution (e.g., 0.1 nm), scan speed, sample size, and software compatibility.
Notable AFM manufacturers include Asylum Research, Bruker, Park Systems, and Nanosurf.
| Manufacturer | Resolution (nm) | Scan Speed (Hz) |
|---|---|---|
| Asylum Research | 0.1 | 10-100 |
| Bruker | 0.01 | 1-50 |
| Park Systems | 0.05 | 5-500 |
| Nanosurf | 0.1 | 1-100 |
Note: The table is a summary of the key features and specifications of notable AFM manufacturers mentioned in the source text.
AFM has revolutionized the field of microscopy, enabling researchers to visualize and study materials at the nanoscale with unprecedented detail.