1
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Wang WW, Yan H, Gu Y, Yan J, Mao BW. In Situ Electrochemical Atomic Force Microscopy: From Interfaces to Interphases. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY (PALO ALTO, CALIF.) 2024; 17:103-126. [PMID: 38603469 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-anchem-061422-020428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
The electrochemical interface formed between an electrode and an electrolyte significantly affects the rate and mechanism of the electrode reaction through its structure and properties, which vary across the interface. The scope of the interface has been expanded, along with the development of energy electrochemistry, where a solid-electrolyte interphase may form on the electrode and the active materials change properties near the surface region. Developing a comprehensive understanding of electrochemical interfaces and interphases necessitates three-dimensional spatial resolution characterization. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) offers advantages of imaging and long-range force measurements. Here we assess the capabilities of AFM by comparing the force curves of different regimes and various imaging modes for in situ characterizing of electrochemical interfaces and interphases. Selected examples of progress on work related to the structures and processes of electrode surfaces, electrical double layers, and lithium battery systems are subsequently illustrated. Finally, this review provides perspectives on the future development of electrochemical AFM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Wei Wang
- 1State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; ,
- 2Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen, China
| | - Hao Yan
- 1State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; ,
- 2Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen, China
| | - Yu Gu
- 1State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; ,
- 2Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen, China
| | - Jiawei Yan
- 1State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; ,
- 2Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen, China
| | - Bing-Wei Mao
- 1State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; ,
- 2Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen, China
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2
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Bian K, Zheng W, Chen X, Zhang S, Stöhr R, Denisenko A, Yang S, Wrachtrup J, Jiang Y. A scanning probe microscope compatible with quantum sensing at ambient conditions. THE REVIEW OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS 2024; 95:053707. [PMID: 38819258 DOI: 10.1063/5.0202756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
We designed and built up a new type of ambient scanning probe microscope (SPM), which is fully compatible with state-of-the-art quantum sensing technology based on the nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond. We chose a qPlus-type tuning fork (Q up to ∼4400) as the current/force sensor of SPM for its high stiffness and stability under various environments, which yields atomic resolution under scanning tunneling microscopy mode and 1.2-nm resolution under atomic force microscopy mode. The tip of SPM can be used to directly image the topography of nanoscale targets on diamond surfaces for quantum sensing and to manipulate the electrostatic environment of NV centers to enhance their sensitivity up to a single proton spin. In addition, we also demonstrated scanning magnetometry and electrometry with a spatial resolution of ∼20 nm. Our new system not only paves the way for integrating atomic/molecular-scale color-center qubits onto SPM tips to produce quantum tips but also provides the possibility of fabricating color-center qubits with nanoscale or atomic precision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Bian
- International Center for Quantum Materials, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Wentian Zheng
- International Center for Quantum Materials, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Xiakun Chen
- International Center for Quantum Materials, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Shichen Zhang
- International Center for Quantum Materials, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Rainer Stöhr
- Third Institute of Physics, University of Stuttgart and Institute for Quantum Science and Technology (IQST), Stuttgart 70569, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research, Stuttgart 70569, Germany
| | - Andrej Denisenko
- Third Institute of Physics, University of Stuttgart and Institute for Quantum Science and Technology (IQST), Stuttgart 70569, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research, Stuttgart 70569, Germany
| | - Sen Yang
- Department of Physics, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Jörg Wrachtrup
- Third Institute of Physics, University of Stuttgart and Institute for Quantum Science and Technology (IQST), Stuttgart 70569, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research, Stuttgart 70569, Germany
| | - Ying Jiang
- International Center for Quantum Materials, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Quantum Matter, Beijing 100871, China
- Interdisciplinary Institute of Light-Element Quantum Materials and Research Center for Light-Element Advanced Materials, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
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3
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Franceschi G, Brandstetter S, Balajka J, Sokolović I, Pavelec J, Setvín M, Schmid M, Diebold U. Interaction of surface cations of cleaved mica with water in vapor and liquid forms. Faraday Discuss 2024; 249:84-97. [PMID: 37791454 PMCID: PMC10845011 DOI: 10.1039/d3fd00093a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Natural minerals contain ions that become hydrated when they come into contact with water in vapor and liquid forms. Muscovite mica - a common phyllosilicate with perfect cleavage planes - is an ideal system to investigate the details of ion hydration. The cleaved mica surface is decorated by an array of K+ ions that can be easily exchanged with other ions or protons when immersed in an aqueous solution. Despite the vast interest in the atomic-scale hydration processes of these K+ ions, experimental data under controlled conditions have remained elusive. Here, atomically resolved non-contact atomic force microscopy (nc-AFM) is combined with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to investigate the cation hydration upon dosing water vapor at 100 K in ultra-high vacuum (UHV). The cleaved surface is further exposed to ultra-clean liquid water at room temperature, which promotes ion mobility and partial ion-to-proton substitution. The results offer the first direct experimental views of the interaction of water with muscovite mica under UHV. The findings are in line with previous theoretical predictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Franceschi
- Institute of Applied Physics, TU Wien, Wiedner Hauptstraße 8-10/E134, 1040 Wien, Austria.
| | - Sebastian Brandstetter
- Institute of Applied Physics, TU Wien, Wiedner Hauptstraße 8-10/E134, 1040 Wien, Austria.
| | - Jan Balajka
- Institute of Applied Physics, TU Wien, Wiedner Hauptstraße 8-10/E134, 1040 Wien, Austria.
| | - Igor Sokolović
- Institute of Applied Physics, TU Wien, Wiedner Hauptstraße 8-10/E134, 1040 Wien, Austria.
| | - Jiří Pavelec
- Institute of Applied Physics, TU Wien, Wiedner Hauptstraße 8-10/E134, 1040 Wien, Austria.
| | - Martin Setvín
- Department of Surface and Plasma Science, Charles University in Prague, V Holesovickach 2, 180 00 Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Michael Schmid
- Institute of Applied Physics, TU Wien, Wiedner Hauptstraße 8-10/E134, 1040 Wien, Austria.
| | - Ulrike Diebold
- Institute of Applied Physics, TU Wien, Wiedner Hauptstraße 8-10/E134, 1040 Wien, Austria.
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Auer A, Eder B, Giessibl FJ. Electrochemical AFM/STM with a qPlus sensor: A versatile tool to study solid-liquid interfaces. J Chem Phys 2023; 159:174201. [PMID: 37909458 DOI: 10.1063/5.0168329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Atomic force microscopy (AFM) that can be simultaneously performed with scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) using metallic tips attached to self-sensing quartz cantilevers (qPlus sensors) has advanced the field of surface science by allowing for unprecedented spatial resolution under ultrahigh vacuum conditions. Performing simultaneous AFM and STM with atomic resolution in an electrochemical cell offers new possibilities to locally image both the vertical layering of the interfacial water and the lateral structure of the electrochemical interfaces. Here, a combined AFM/STM instrument realized with a qPlus sensor and a home-built potentiostat for electrochemical applications is presented. We demonstrate its potential by simultaneously imaging graphite with atomic resolution in acidic electrolytes. Additionally, we show its capability to precisely measure the interfacial solvent layering along the surface normal as a function of the applied potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Auer
- Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Bernhard Eder
- Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Franz J Giessibl
- Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
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Seeholzer T, Tarau D, Hollendonner L, Auer A, Rachel R, Grohmann D, Giessibl FJ, Weymouth AJ. A Next-Generation qPlus-Sensor-Based AFM Setup: Resolving Archaeal S-Layer Protein Structures in Air and Liquid. J Phys Chem B 2023; 127:6949-6957. [PMID: 37527455 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.3c02875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
Surface-layer (S-layer) proteins form the outermost envelope in many bacteria and most archaea and arrange in two-dimensional quasicrystalline structures via self-assembly. We investigated S-layer proteins extracted from the archaeon Pyrobaculum aerophilium with a qPlus sensor-based atomic force microscope (AFM) in both liquid and ambient conditions and compared it to transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images under vacuum conditions. For AFM scanning, a next-generation liquid cell and a new protocol for creating long and sharp sapphire tips was introduced. Initial AFM images showed only layers of residual detergent molecules (sodium dodecyl sulfate, SDS), which are used to isolate the S-layer proteins from the cells. SDS was not visible in the TEM images, requiring more thorough sample preparation for AFM measurements. These improvements allowed us to resolve the crystallike structure of the S-layer samples with frequency-modulation AFM in both air and liquid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Seeholzer
- Faculty of Physics, University of Regensburg, Regensburg 93053, Germany
| | - Daniela Tarau
- Institute of Microbiology and Archaea Centre, University of Regensburg, Regensburg 93053, Germany
| | - Lea Hollendonner
- Faculty of Physics, University of Regensburg, Regensburg 93053, Germany
| | - Andrea Auer
- Faculty of Physics, University of Regensburg, Regensburg 93053, Germany
| | - Reinhard Rachel
- Institute of Microbiology and Archaea Centre, University of Regensburg, Regensburg 93053, Germany
| | - Dina Grohmann
- Institute of Microbiology and Archaea Centre, University of Regensburg, Regensburg 93053, Germany
- Regensburg Center for Biochemistry, University of Regensburg, Regensburg 93053, Germany
| | - Franz J Giessibl
- Faculty of Physics, University of Regensburg, Regensburg 93053, Germany
| | - Alfred J Weymouth
- Faculty of Physics, University of Regensburg, Regensburg 93053, Germany
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Yamada Y, Ichii T, Utsunomiya T, Kimura K, Kobayashi K, Yamada H, Sugimura H. Fundamental and higher eigenmodes of qPlus sensors with a long probe for vertical-lateral bimodal atomic force microscopy. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2023; 5:840-850. [PMID: 36756504 PMCID: PMC9890686 DOI: 10.1039/d2na00686c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The detection of vertical and lateral forces at the nanoscale by atomic force microscopy (AFM) reveals various mechanical properties on surfaces. The qPlus sensor is a widely used force sensor, which is built from a quartz tuning fork (QTF) and a sharpened metal probe, capable of high-resolution imaging in viscous liquids such as lubricant oils. Although a simultaneous detection technique of vertical and lateral forces by using a qPlus sensor is required in the field of nanotribology, it has still been difficult because the torsional oscillations of QTFs cannot be detected. In this paper, we propose a method to simultaneously detect vertical and lateral force components by using a qPlus sensor with a long probe. The first three eigenmodes of the qPlus sensor with a long probe are theoretically studied by solving a set of equations of motion for the QTF prong and probe. The calculation results were in good agreement with the experimental results. It was found that the tip oscillates laterally in the second and third modes. Finally, we performed friction anisotropy measurements on a polymer film by using a bimodal AFM utilizing the qPlus sensor with a long probe to confirm the lateral force detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuya Yamada
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Kyoto University Yoshida Honmachi, Sakyo Kyoto 606-8501 Japan
| | - Takashi Ichii
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Kyoto University Yoshida Honmachi, Sakyo Kyoto 606-8501 Japan
| | - Toru Utsunomiya
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Kyoto University Yoshida Honmachi, Sakyo Kyoto 606-8501 Japan
| | - Kuniko Kimura
- Department of Electronic Science and Engineering, Kyoto University Katsura, Nishikyo Kyoto 615-8510 Japan
| | - Kei Kobayashi
- Department of Electronic Science and Engineering, Kyoto University Katsura, Nishikyo Kyoto 615-8510 Japan
| | - Hirofumi Yamada
- Department of Electronic Science and Engineering, Kyoto University Katsura, Nishikyo Kyoto 615-8510 Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Sugimura
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Kyoto University Yoshida Honmachi, Sakyo Kyoto 606-8501 Japan
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7
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Franceschi G, Kocán P, Conti A, Brandstetter S, Balajka J, Sokolović I, Valtiner M, Mittendorfer F, Schmid M, Setvín M, Diebold U. Resolving the intrinsic short-range ordering of K + ions on cleaved muscovite mica. Nat Commun 2023; 14:208. [PMID: 36639388 PMCID: PMC9839703 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-35872-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Muscovite mica, KAl2(Si3Al)O10(OH)2, is a common layered phyllosilicate with perfect cleavage planes. The atomically flat surfaces obtained through cleaving lend themselves to scanning probe techniques with atomic resolution and are ideal to model minerals and clays. Despite the importance of the cleaved mica surfaces, several questions remain unresolved. It is established that K+ ions decorate the cleaved surface, but their intrinsic ordering - unaffected by the interaction with the environment - is not known. This work presents clear images of the K+ distribution of cleaved mica obtained with low-temperature non-contact atomic force microscopy (AFM) under ultra-high vacuum (UHV) conditions. The data unveil the presence of short-range ordering, contrasting previous assumptions of random or fully ordered distributions. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations and Monte Carlo simulations show that the substitutional subsurface Al3+ ions have an important role for the surface K+ ion arrangement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Franceschi
- grid.5329.d0000 0001 2348 4034Institute of Applied Physics, TU Wien, Wiedner Hauptstraβe 8-10/E134, 1040 Vienna, Austria
| | - Pavel Kocán
- grid.4491.80000 0004 1937 116XDepartment of Surface and Plasma Science, Charles University, V Holesovickach 2, 180 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Andrea Conti
- grid.5329.d0000 0001 2348 4034Institute of Applied Physics, TU Wien, Wiedner Hauptstraβe 8-10/E134, 1040 Vienna, Austria
| | - Sebastian Brandstetter
- grid.5329.d0000 0001 2348 4034Institute of Applied Physics, TU Wien, Wiedner Hauptstraβe 8-10/E134, 1040 Vienna, Austria
| | - Jan Balajka
- grid.5329.d0000 0001 2348 4034Institute of Applied Physics, TU Wien, Wiedner Hauptstraβe 8-10/E134, 1040 Vienna, Austria
| | - Igor Sokolović
- grid.5329.d0000 0001 2348 4034Institute of Applied Physics, TU Wien, Wiedner Hauptstraβe 8-10/E134, 1040 Vienna, Austria
| | - Markus Valtiner
- grid.5329.d0000 0001 2348 4034Institute of Applied Physics, TU Wien, Wiedner Hauptstraβe 8-10/E134, 1040 Vienna, Austria
| | - Florian Mittendorfer
- grid.5329.d0000 0001 2348 4034Institute of Applied Physics, TU Wien, Wiedner Hauptstraβe 8-10/E134, 1040 Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Schmid
- grid.5329.d0000 0001 2348 4034Institute of Applied Physics, TU Wien, Wiedner Hauptstraβe 8-10/E134, 1040 Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Setvín
- grid.5329.d0000 0001 2348 4034Institute of Applied Physics, TU Wien, Wiedner Hauptstraβe 8-10/E134, 1040 Vienna, Austria ,grid.4491.80000 0004 1937 116XDepartment of Surface and Plasma Science, Charles University, V Holesovickach 2, 180 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ulrike Diebold
- grid.5329.d0000 0001 2348 4034Institute of Applied Physics, TU Wien, Wiedner Hauptstraβe 8-10/E134, 1040 Vienna, Austria
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Xia F, Youcef-Toumi K. Review: Advanced Atomic Force Microscopy Modes for Biomedical Research. BIOSENSORS 2022; 12:1116. [PMID: 36551083 PMCID: PMC9775674 DOI: 10.3390/bios12121116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Visualization of biomedical samples in their native environments at the microscopic scale is crucial for studying fundamental principles and discovering biomedical systems with complex interaction. The study of dynamic biological processes requires a microscope system with multiple modalities, high spatial/temporal resolution, large imaging ranges, versatile imaging environments and ideally in-situ manipulation capabilities. Recent development of new Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) capabilities has made it such a powerful tool for biological and biomedical research. This review introduces novel AFM functionalities including high-speed imaging for dynamic process visualization, mechanobiology with force spectroscopy, molecular species characterization, and AFM nano-manipulation. These capabilities enable many new possibilities for novel scientific research and allow scientists to observe and explore processes at the nanoscale like never before. Selected application examples from recent studies are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of these AFM techniques.
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9
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Zeng Q, Huang Q, Wang H, Li C, Fan Z, Chen D, Cheng Y, Zeng K. Breaking the Fundamental Limitations of Nanoscale Ferroelectric Characterization: Non-Contact Heterodyne Electrostrain Force Microscopy. SMALL METHODS 2021; 5:e2100639. [PMID: 34927968 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202100639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Perceiving nanoscale ferroelectric phenomena from real space is of great importance for elucidating underlying ferroelectric physics. During the past decades, nanoscale ferroelectric characterization has mainly relied on the Piezoresponse Force Microscopy (PFM) invented in 1992, however, the fundamental limitations of PFM have made the nanoscale ferroelectric studies encounter significant bottlenecks. In this study, a high-resolution non-contact ferroelectric measurement, named Non-Contact Heterodyne Electrostrain Force Microscopy (NC-HEsFM), is introduced. It is demonstrated that NC-HEsFM can operate on multiple eigenmodes to perform ideal high-resolution ferroelectric domain mapping, standard ferroelectric hysteresis loop measurement, and controllable domain manipulation. By using a quartz tuning fork (QTF) sensor, multi-frequency operation, and heterodyne detection schemes, NC-HEsFM achieves a real non-contact yet non-destructive ferroelectric characterization with negligible electrostatic force effect and hence breaks the fundamental limitations of the conventional PFM. It is believed that NC-HEsFM can be extensively used in various ferroelectric or piezoelectric studies with providing substantially improved characterization performance. Meanwhile, the QTF-based force detection makes NC-HEsFM highly compatible for high-vacuum and low-temperature environments, providing ideal conditions for investigating the intrinsic ferroelectric phenomena with the possibility of achieving an atomically resolved ferroelectric characterization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qibin Zeng
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117576, Singapore
| | - Qicheng Huang
- Institute for Advanced Materials, South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Hongli Wang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117576, Singapore
- The Key Lab of Guangdong for Modern Surface Engineering Technology, National Engineering Laboratory for Modern Materials Surface Engineering Technology, Institute of New Materials, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510650, China
| | - Caiwen Li
- Institute for Advanced Materials, South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Optical Information Materials and Technology, South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Zhen Fan
- Institute for Advanced Materials, South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Deyang Chen
- Institute for Advanced Materials, South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Optical Information Materials and Technology, South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Yuan Cheng
- Institute of High-Performance Computing, Agency for Science Technology and Research, Singapore, 138632, Singapore
- Monash Suzhou Research Institute, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Kaiyang Zeng
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117576, Singapore
- NUS (Suzhou) Research Institute (NUSRI), Suzhou, 215123, China
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10
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Giessibl FJ. Probing the Nature of Chemical Bonds by Atomic Force Microscopy. Molecules 2021; 26:4068. [PMID: 34279408 PMCID: PMC8271455 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26134068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The nature of the chemical bond is important in all natural sciences, ranging from biology to chemistry, physics and materials science. The atomic force microscope (AFM) allows to put a single chemical bond on the test bench, probing its strength and angular dependence. We review experimental AFM data, covering precise studies of van-der-Waals-, covalent-, ionic-, metallic- and hydrogen bonds as well as bonds between artificial and natural atoms. Further, we discuss some of the density functional theory calculations that are related to the experimental studies of the chemical bonds. A description of frequency modulation AFM, the most precise AFM method, discusses some of the experimental challenges in measuring bonding forces. In frequency modulation AFM, forces between the tip of an oscillating cantilever change its frequency. Initially, cantilevers were made mainly from silicon. Most of the high precision measurements of bonding strengths by AFM became possible with a technology transfer from the quartz watch technology to AFM by using quartz-based cantilevers ("qPlus force sensors"), briefly described here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franz J Giessibl
- Chair for Quantum Nanoscience, Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, D-93040 Regensburg, Germany
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11
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Thakur A, Xu C, Li WK, Qiu G, He B, Ng SP, Wu CML, Lee Y. In vivo liquid biopsy for glioblastoma malignancy by the AFM and LSPR based sensing of exosomal CD44 and CD133 in a mouse model. Biosens Bioelectron 2021; 191:113476. [PMID: 34246124 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2021.113476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the fatal brain tumor in which secreted lactate enhances the expression of cluster of differentiation 44 (CD44) and the release of exosomes, cell-derived nanovesicles (30-200 nm), and therefore promotes tumor malignant progression. This study found that lactate-driven upregulated CD44 in malignant Glioblastoma cells (GMs) enhanced the release of CD44-enriched exosomes which increased GMs' migration and endothelial cells' tube formation, and CD44 in the secreted exosomes was sensitively detected by "capture and sensing" Titanium Nitride (TiN) - Nanoholes (NH) - discs immunocapture (TIC) - atomic force microscopy (AFM) and ultrasensitive TiN-NH-localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) biosensors. The limit of detection for exosomal CD44 with TIC-AFM- and TiN-NH-LSPR-biosensors was 5.29 × 10-1 μg/ml and 3.46 × 10-3 μg/ml in exosome concentration, respectively. Importantly, this work first found that label-free sensitive TiN-NH-LSPR biosensor could detect and quantify enhanced CD44 and CD133 levels in immunocaptured GMs-derived exosomes in the blood and the cerebrospinal fluid of a mouse model of GBM, supporting its potential application in a minimally invasive molecular diagnostic for GBM progression as liquid biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhimanyu Thakur
- Department of Neuroscience, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, SAR, China
| | - Chen Xu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, SAR, China
| | - Wing Kar Li
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, SAR, China
| | - Guangyu Qiu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, SAR, China; Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering, Institute of Environmental Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zürich, 8093, Switzerland
| | - Bing He
- Department of Neuroscience, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, SAR, China
| | - Siu-Pang Ng
- Rafael Biotechnology Company Ltd., SAR, China
| | - Chi-Man Lawrence Wu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, SAR, China.
| | - Youngjin Lee
- Department of Neuroscience, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, SAR, China.
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12
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Bian K, Gerber C, Heinrich AJ, Müller DJ, Scheuring S, Jiang Y. Scanning probe microscopy. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021. [DOI: 10.1038/s43586-021-00033-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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13
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Nanoscale electric-field imaging based on a quantum sensor and its charge-state control under ambient condition. Nat Commun 2021; 12:2457. [PMID: 33911073 PMCID: PMC8080810 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-22709-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond can be used as quantum sensors to image the magnetic field with nanoscale resolution. However, nanoscale electric-field mapping has not been achieved so far because of the relatively weak coupling strength between NV and electric field. Here, using individual shallow NVs, we quantitatively image electric field contours from a sharp tip of a qPlus-based atomic force microscope (AFM), and achieve a spatial resolution of ~10 nm. Through such local electric fields, we demonstrated electric control of NV's charge state with sub-5 nm precision. This work represents the first step towards nanoscale scanning electrometry based on a single quantum sensor and may open up the possibility of quantitatively mapping local charge, electric polarization, and dielectric response in a broad spectrum of functional materials at nanoscale.
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14
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Kirpal D, Qiu J, Pürckhauer K, Weymouth AJ, Metz M, Giessibl FJ. Biaxial atomically resolved force microscopy based on a qPlus sensor operated simultaneously in the first flexural and length extensional modes. THE REVIEW OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS 2021; 92:043703. [PMID: 34243447 DOI: 10.1063/5.0041369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Frequency-modulation atomic force microscopy (AFM) with a qPlus sensor allows one to atomically resolve surfaces in a variety of environments ranging from low-temperature in ultra-high vacuum to ambient and liquid conditions. Typically, the tip is driven to oscillate vertically, giving a measure of the vertical force component. However, for many systems, the lateral force component provides valuable information about the sample. Measuring lateral and vertical force components simultaneously by oscillating vertically and laterally has so far only been demonstrated with relatively soft silicon cantilevers and optical detection. Here, we show that the qPlus sensor can be used in a biaxial mode with electrical detection by making use of the first flexural mode and the length extensional mode. We describe the necessary electrode configuration as well as the electrical detection circuit and compare the length extensional mode to the needle sensor. Finally, we show atomic resolution in ambient conditions of a mica surface and in ultra-high vacuum of a silicon surface. In addition to this, we show how any qPlus AFM setup can be modified to work as a biaxial sensor, allowing two independent force components to be recorded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Kirpal
- Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, D-93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Jinglan Qiu
- Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, D-93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Korbinian Pürckhauer
- Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, D-93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Alfred J Weymouth
- Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, D-93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Michael Metz
- Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, D-93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Franz J Giessibl
- Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, D-93053 Regensburg, Germany
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15
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Vilhena JG, Ortega M, Uhlig MR, Garcia R, Pérez R. Practical Guide to Single-Protein AFM Nanomechanical Spectroscopy Mapping: Insights and Pitfalls As Unraveled by All-Atom MD Simulations on Immunoglobulin G. ACS Sens 2021; 6:553-564. [PMID: 33503368 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.0c02241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Atomic force microscopy is an invaluable characterization tool in almost every biophysics laboratory. However, obtaining atomic/sub-nanometer resolution on single proteins has thus far remained elusive-a feat long achieved on hard substrates. In this regard, nanomechanical spectroscopy mapping may provide a viable approach to overcome this limitation. By complementing topography with mechanical properties measured locally, one may thus enhance spatial resolution at the single-protein level. In this work, we perform all-atom molecular dynamics simulations of the indentation process on a single immunoglobulin G (IgG) adsorbed on a graphene slab. Our simulations reveal three different stages as a function of strain: a noncontact regime-where the mechanical response is linked to the presence of the water environment- followed by an elastic response and a final plastic deformation regime. In the noncontact regime, we are able to identify hydrophobic/hydrophilic patches over the protein. This regime provides the most local mechanical information that allows one to discern different regions with similar height/topography and leads to the best spatial resolution. In the elastic regime, we conclude that the Young modulus is a well-defined property only within mechanically decoupled domains. This is caused by the fact that the elastic deformation is associated with a global reorganization of the domain. Differences in the mechanical response are large enough to clearly resolve domains within a single protein, such as the three subunits forming the IgG. Two events, unfolding or protein slipping, are observed in the plastic regime. Our simulations allow us to characterize these two processes and to provide a strategy to identify them in the force curves. Finally, we elaborate on possible challenges that could hamper the interpretation of such experiments/simulations and how to overcome them. All in all, our simulations provide a detailed picture of nanomechanical spectroscopy mapping on single proteins, showing its potential and the challenges that need to be overcome to unlock its full potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. G. Vilhena
- Department of Physics, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 82, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
- Departamento de Física Teórica de la Materia Condensada, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, E-28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria Ortega
- Departamento de Física Teórica de la Materia Condensada, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, E-28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel R. Uhlig
- Materials Science Factory, Instituto de Ciencia de Materiales de Madrid (ICMM), CSIC, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ricardo Garcia
- Materials Science Factory, Instituto de Ciencia de Materiales de Madrid (ICMM), CSIC, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Rubén Pérez
- Departamento de Física Teórica de la Materia Condensada, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, E-28049 Madrid, Spain
- Condensed Matter Physics Center (IFIMAC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, E-28049 Madrid, Spain
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16
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Chen K, Liu Z, Xie Y, Zhang C, Xu G, Song W, Xu K. Numerical analysis of vibration modes of a qPlus sensor with a long tip. BEILSTEIN JOURNAL OF NANOTECHNOLOGY 2021; 12:82-92. [PMID: 33564605 PMCID: PMC7849263 DOI: 10.3762/bjnano.12.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
We study the oscillatory behavior of qPlus sensors with a long tilted tip by means of finite element simulations. The vibration modes of a qPlus sensor with a long tip are quite different from those of a cantilever with a short tip. Flexural vibration of the tungsten tip will occur. The tip can no longer be considered as a rigid body that moves with the prong of the tuning fork. Instead, it oscillates both horizontally and vertically. The vibration characteristics of qPlus sensors with different tip sizes were studied. An optimized tip size was derived from obtained values of tip amplitude, ratio between vertical and lateral amplitude components, output current, and quality factor. For high spatial resolution the optimal diameter was found to be 0.1 mm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kebei Chen
- School of Nano Technology and Nano Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China, Suzhou 215123, China
- Platform for Characterization and Test, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Suzhou 215123, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic Materials and Devices, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Zhenghui Liu
- Platform for Characterization and Test, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Suzhou 215123, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic Materials and Devices, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yuchen Xie
- Platform for Characterization and Test, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Chunyu Zhang
- Platform for Characterization and Test, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Suzhou 215123, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic Materials and Devices, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Gengzhao Xu
- Platform for Characterization and Test, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Suzhou 215123, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic Materials and Devices, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Wentao Song
- Platform for Characterization and Test, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Suzhou 215123, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic Materials and Devices, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Ke Xu
- Platform for Characterization and Test, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Suzhou 215123, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic Materials and Devices, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Suzhou 215123, China
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17
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Subnanometer-scale imaging of nanobio-interfaces by frequency modulation atomic force microscopy. Biochem Soc Trans 2020; 48:1675-1682. [PMID: 32779720 DOI: 10.1042/bst20200155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Recently, there have been significant advancements in dynamic-mode atomic force microscopy (AFM) for biological applications. With frequency modulation AFM (FM-AFM), subnanometer-scale surface structures of biomolecules such as secondary structures of proteins, phosphate groups of DNAs, and lipid-ion complexes have been directly visualized. In addition, three-dimensional AFM (3D-AFM) has been developed by combining a high-resolution AFM technique with a 3D tip scanning method. This method enabled visualization of 3D distributions of water (i.e. hydration structures) with subnanometer-scale resolution on various biological molecules such as lipids, proteins, and DNAs. Furthermore, 3D-AFM also allows visualization of subnanometer-scale 3D distributions of flexible surface structures such as thermally fluctuating lipid headgroups. Such a direct local information at nano-bio interfaces can play a critical role in determining the atomic- or molecular-scale model to explain interfacial structures and functions. Here, we present an overview of these recent advancements in the dynamic-mode AFM techniques and their biological applications.
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18
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Fukuma T. Improvements in fundamental performance of in-liquid frequency modulation atomic force microscopy. Microscopy (Oxf) 2020; 69:340-349. [PMID: 32780817 DOI: 10.1093/jmicro/dfaa045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
In-liquid frequency modulation atomic force microscopy (FM-AFM) has been used for visualizing subnanometer-scale surface structures of minerals, organic thin films and biological systems. In addition, three-dimensional atomic force microscopy (3D-AFM) has been developed by combining it with a three-dimensional (3D) tip scanning method. This method enabled the visualization of 3D distributions of water (i.e. hydration structures) and flexible molecular chains at subnanometer-scale resolution. While these applications highlighted the unique capabilities of FM-AFM, its force resolution, speed and stability are not necessarily at a satisfactory level for practical applications. Recently, there have been significant advancements in these fundamental performances. The force resolution was dramatically improved by using a small cantilever, which enabled the imaging of a 3D hydration structure even in pure water and made it possible to directly compare experimental results with simulated ones. In addition, the improved force resolution allowed the enhancement of imaging speed without compromising spatial resolution. To achieve this goal, efforts have been made for improving bandwidth, resonance frequency and/or latency of various components, including a high-speed phase-locked loop (PLL) circuit. With these improvements, now atomic-resolution in-liquid FM-AFM imaging can be performed at ∼1 s/frame. Furthermore, a Si-coating method was found to improve stability and reproducibility of atomic-resolution imaging owing to formation of a stable hydration structure on a tip apex. These improvements have opened up new possibilities of atomic-scale studies on solid-liquid interfacial phenomena by in-liquid FM-AFM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Fukuma
- Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI), Kanazawa University, Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan
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19
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Pürckhauer K, Maier S, Merkel A, Kirpal D, Giessibl FJ. Combined atomic force microscope and scanning tunneling microscope with high optical access achieving atomic resolution in ambient conditions. THE REVIEW OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS 2020; 91:083701. [PMID: 32872933 DOI: 10.1063/5.0013921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Performing atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) with atomic resolution under ambient conditions is challenging due to enhanced noise and thermal drift. We show the design of a compact combined atomic force and scanning tunneling microscope that uses qPlus sensors and discuss the stability and thermal drift. By using a material with a low thermal expansion coefficient, we can perform constant height measurements and achieve atomic resolution in both AFM and STM on various samples. Moreover, the design allows a wide angle optical access to the sensor and the sample that is of interest for combining with optical microscopes or focusing optics with a high numerical aperture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Korbinian Pürckhauer
- Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, D-93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Simon Maier
- Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, D-93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Anja Merkel
- Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, D-93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Dominik Kirpal
- Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, D-93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Franz J Giessibl
- Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, D-93053 Regensburg, Germany
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20
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Kirpal DJ, Pürckhauer K, Weymouth AJ, Giessibl FJ. Ion mobility and material transport on KBr in air as a function of the relative humidity. BEILSTEIN JOURNAL OF NANOTECHNOLOGY 2019; 10:2084-2093. [PMID: 31728256 PMCID: PMC6839551 DOI: 10.3762/bjnano.10.203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Surfaces exposed to air can change their structure due to external influences such as chemical reactions or material exchange and movement. The adsorbed water layer that is present under ambient conditions plays an important role especially for highly soluble materials. Surface atoms can easily diffuse into the thin water layer and, when surface conditions are favorable, they can re-attach to the surface. We collected atomic force microscopy images of KBr surfaces in a humidity-controlled glove box at various relative humidities below 40%. By scratching and poking the surface with the AFM tip, we constructed energetically unfavorable holes or scratch sites and material accumulations and recorded the evolution of these defects as a function of the time. We observed an exponential decay of the size of the defects and material accumulations, and from this data we determined energy barriers to dissolution and aggregation of approximately 0.9 eV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik J Kirpal
- Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, 93040 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Korbinian Pürckhauer
- Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, 93040 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Alfred J Weymouth
- Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, 93040 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Franz J Giessibl
- Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, 93040 Regensburg, Germany
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21
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Cao D, Song Y, Peng J, Ma R, Guo J, Chen J, Li X, Jiang Y, Wang E, Xu L. Advances in Atomic Force Microscopy: Weakly Perturbative Imaging of the Interfacial Water. Front Chem 2019; 7:626. [PMID: 31572715 PMCID: PMC6751248 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2019.00626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The structure and dynamics of interfacial water, determined by the water-interface interactions, are important for a wide range of applied fields and natural processes, such as water diffusion (Kim et al., 2013), electrochemistry (Markovic, 2013), heterogeneous catalysis (Over et al., 2000), and lubrication (Zilibotti et al., 2013). The precise understanding of water-interface interactions largely relies on the development of atomic-scale experimental techniques (Guo et al., 2014) and computational methods (Hapala et al., 2014b). Scanning probe microscopy has been extensively applied to probe interfacial water in many interdisciplinary fields (Ichii et al., 2012; Shiotari and Sugimoto, 2017; Peng et al., 2018a). In this perspective, we review the recent progress in the noncontact atomic force microscopy (nc-AFM) imaging and AFM simulation techniques and discuss how the newly developed techniques are applied to study the properties of interfacial water. The nc-AFM with the quadrupole-like CO-terminated tip can achieve ultrahigh-resolution imaging of the interfacial water on different surfaces, trace the reconstruction of H-bonding network and determine the intrinsic structures of the weakly bonded water clusters and even their metastable states. In the end, we present an outlook on the directions of future AFM studies of interfacial water as well as the challenges faced by this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duanyun Cao
- International Center for Quantum Materials, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yizhi Song
- International Center for Quantum Materials, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jinbo Peng
- International Center for Quantum Materials, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Runze Ma
- International Center for Quantum Materials, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Guo
- College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Ji Chen
- School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xinzheng Li
- School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Quantum Matter, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Jiang
- International Center for Quantum Materials, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Quantum Matter, Beijing, China.,CAS Center for Excellence in Topological Quantum Computation, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Enge Wang
- International Center for Quantum Materials, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Ceramics Division, Songshan Lake Materials Lab, Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangdong, China.,School of Physics, Liaoning University, Shenyang, China
| | - Limei Xu
- International Center for Quantum Materials, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Quantum Matter, Beijing, China
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22
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Giessibl FJ. The qPlus sensor, a powerful core for the atomic force microscope. THE REVIEW OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS 2019; 90:011101. [PMID: 30709191 DOI: 10.1063/1.5052264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 12/25/2018] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was introduced in 1986 and has since made its way into surface science, nanoscience, chemistry, biology, and material science as an imaging and manipulating tool with a rising number of applications. AFM can be employed in ambient and liquid environments as well as in vacuum and at low and ultralow temperatures. The technique is an offspring of scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), where the tunneling tip of the STM is replaced by using a force sensor with an attached tip. Measuring the tiny chemical forces that act between the tip and the sample is more difficult than measuring the tunneling current in STM. Therefore, even 30 years after the introduction of AFM, progress in instrumentation is substantial. Here, we focus on the core of the AFM, the force sensor with its tip and detection mechanism. Initially, force sensors were mainly micro-machined silicon cantilevers, mainly using optical methods to detect their deflection. The qPlus sensor, originally based on a quartz tuning fork and now custom built from quartz, is self-sensing by utilizing the piezoelectricity of quartz. The qPlus sensor allows us to perform STM and AFM in parallel, and the spatial resolution of its AFM channel has reached the subatomic level, exceeding the resolution of STM. Frequency modulation AFM (FM-AFM), where the frequency of an oscillating cantilever is altered by the gradient of the force that acts between the tip and the sample, has emerged over the years as the method that provides atomic and subatomic spatial resolution as well as force spectroscopy with sub-piconewton sensitivity. FM-AFM is precise; because of all physical observables, time and frequency can be measured by far with the greatest accuracy. By design, FM-AFM clearly separates conservative and dissipative interactions where conservative forces induce a frequency shift and dissipative interactions alter the power needed to maintain a constant oscillation amplitude of the cantilever. As it operates in a noncontact mode, it enables simultaneous AFM and STM measurements. The frequency stability of quartz and the small oscillation amplitudes that are possible with stiff quartz sensors optimize the signal to noise ratio. Here, we discuss the operating principles, the assembly of qPlus sensors, amplifiers, limiting factors, and applications. Applications encompass unprecedented subatomic spatial resolution, the measurement of forces that act in atomic manipulation, imaging and spectroscopy of spin-dependent forces, and atomic resolution of organic molecules, graphite, graphene, and oxides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franz J Giessibl
- Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstrasse 31, D-93040 Regensburg, Germany
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23
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Advances in AFM: Seeing Atoms in Ambient Conditions. E-JOURNAL OF SURFACE SCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1380/ejssnt.2018.351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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