Material Science: Understanding the mechanical properties of thin films, nanocomposites, and biomaterials.
Biology: Investigating the mechanical properties of cells, proteins, and other biological structures.
Nanomanufacturing: Characterizing materials used in
nanoelectronics and other advanced technologies.
High Resolution: It provides nanometer-scale resolution, allowing for precise measurement of mechanical properties at the nanoscale.
Versatility: It can be used on a wide range of materials, including soft biological tissues and hard ceramics.
Minimal Sample Preparation: Unlike other techniques, AFM-based indentation requires little to no sample preparation.
Depth Limitation: It is generally limited to shallow indentations, making it less suitable for measuring thick materials.
Complex Data Interpretation: The data obtained can be complex and may require sophisticated analysis techniques.
Probe Wear: The sharp probe can wear out over time, affecting the accuracy and consistency of measurements.