There are several methods of tip fabrication, each with its unique advantages:
Chemical Etching: This method uses chemical solutions to selectively etch away material, creating a sharp tip. It is widely used for fabricating silicon and metallic tips. Focused Ion Beam (FIB) Milling: This technique employs a focused beam of ions to precisely mill the tip, allowing for exceptional control over the tip shape and dimensions. Electron Beam Deposition: In this method, an electron beam is used to deposit material onto a substrate, forming the tip. This allows for the creation of complex tip geometries. Mechanical Sharpening: This involves physically abrading the tip to achieve the desired sharpness. It is less commonly used but can be effective for certain materials.
