Atomic Force Microscopy in hard and soft matter physics

In summary, there are three modes of operation for Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM): contact, tapping, and non-contact. These modes are used in both hard and soft matter physics, but for soft samples, non-contact or tapping mode is preferred to prevent damage. However, for hard samples, contact mode is recommended as it allows for imaging of the underlying surface. There may still be concerns about scratching the sample in contact mode, but this issue has been addressed through further research. Links to relevant papers on the topic have also been provided.
  • #1
JD_PM
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I am studying the modes of operation of the Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). I know there are three: contact, tapping and non-contact.

Are they really used in both hard and soft matter physics? If so, how are the difficulties/limitations that they present overcome?
 
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  • #2
Can you post some links to the reading you've been doing about this so far? Thanks. :smile:
 
  • #4
OK after a little bit more reading I think that for soft samples the best is to use either non-contact or tapping mode, because prevents the sample from being damaged. However, what about hard samples?

In contact mode the probe will penetrate the liquid layer to image the underlying surface, whereas in non-contact mode an AFM will oscillate above the adsorbed fluid layer to image both the liquid and surface. So this suggests that for hard samples the best option is contact mode. Would not the contact mode still scratch the sample though?
 
  • #5
JD_PM said:
OK after a little bit more reading I think that for soft samples the best is to use either non-contact or tapping mode, because prevents the sample from being damaged. However, what about hard samples?

In contact mode the probe will penetrate the liquid layer to image the underlying surface, whereas in non-contact mode an AFM will oscillate above the adsorbed fluid layer to image both the liquid and surface. So this suggests that for hard samples the best option is contact mode. Would not the contact mode still scratch the sample though?
Issue has been solved.
 
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Related to Atomic Force Microscopy in hard and soft matter physics

1. What is Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and how does it work?

Atomic Force Microscopy is a powerful imaging technique used in the field of hard and soft matter physics. It works by scanning a sharp probe over the surface of a sample, measuring the forces between the probe and the surface. These forces are then used to create a high-resolution image of the surface topography.

2. What types of samples can be studied using AFM?

AFM can be used to study a wide range of samples, including solid materials, soft materials, biological samples, and even liquids. It is particularly useful for studying samples that are difficult to image with other techniques, such as materials with rough or uneven surfaces.

3. How does AFM differ from other microscopy techniques?

Unlike traditional optical microscopes, AFM does not rely on light to create an image. Instead, it uses a mechanical probe to scan the surface of a sample, allowing for higher resolution and the ability to image non-conductive materials. Additionally, AFM can also measure and map physical properties of a sample, such as surface roughness and mechanical properties.

4. What are some applications of AFM in hard and soft matter physics?

AFM has a wide range of applications in hard and soft matter physics, including studying the surface topography and properties of materials, investigating the structure and behavior of biomolecules, and characterizing the mechanical properties of materials. It is also used in nanotechnology research and development.

5. What are the advantages of using AFM in research?

One of the main advantages of AFM is its high resolution, with the ability to image features at the nanoscale level. It is also a non-destructive technique, meaning that samples can be imaged without altering their structure or properties. Additionally, AFM is a versatile tool that can be used for various types of samples and can provide valuable insights into the physical and mechanical properties of materials.

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