Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM): This technique measures forces between a sharp tip and the sample surface by monitoring the deflection of a cantilever.
Optical Tweezers: Uses focused laser beams to trap and manipulate small particles, allowing force measurements on biological molecules and cells.
Magnetic Tweezers: Employs magnetic fields to apply and measure forces on magnetic particles attached to molecules or cells.
Nanoindentation: Measures the hardness and elastic modulus of materials by pressing a sharp indenter into the material's surface and recording the force-displacement data.
How Does Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) Work?
AFM is a versatile tool in nanotechnology. It involves a
cantilever with a sharp tip that scans the sample surface. The deflection of the cantilever is measured using a laser beam reflected off its back. By monitoring the cantilever deflection, one can determine the forces acting between the tip and the sample, providing high-resolution topographical and mechanical property data.
Sensitivity: Achieving the sensitivity required to detect picoNewton-level forces is technically challenging.
Calibration: Accurate calibration of the measurement instruments is critical for reliable data.
Environmental Factors: External vibrations and thermal fluctuations can affect the accuracy of force measurements.
Material Science: Studying the mechanical properties of nanomaterials like carbon nanotubes and graphene.
Biophysics: Investigating the forces involved in the behavior of biomolecules and cells.
Nanomedicine: Developing drug delivery systems and understanding the mechanical properties of biological tissues.
Surface Science: Exploring the adhesion and friction properties at the nanoscale.
