Invented 30 years ago, the atomic force microscope has been a major driver of nanotechnology, ranging from atomic-scale imaging to its latest applications in manipulating individual molecules, ...

First invented in 1985 by IBM in Zurich, Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) is a scanning probe technique for imaging. It involves a nanoscopic tip attached to a microscopic, flexible cantilever, which is ...

Anyone who has ever taken the time to critically examine a walnut knows that a two-dimensional photograph fails in many respects to truly convey the unique features--the nicks, crannies, valleys, and ...

Neutral helium microscopy and atom optics constitute an innovative imaging paradigm that exploits low-energy, charge-neutral helium atoms to non-destructively investigate surface properties at the ...

Understanding failure modes, mechanisms, and root causes is critical in the manufacturing of semiconductors and electronic devices. Identifying the underlying cause of a failure not only helps prevent ...

Knowing interaction forces between nanostructures and their substrates is important in nanomanufacturing, such as template-directed assembly. A new mechanical membrane-based AFM (atomic force ...

Dual-salt regulated interfacial evolution at cathode and anode in lithium metal batteries. This schematic illustrates the dual-salt (LiDFOB + LiPF₆) regulated interfacial evolution in lithium metal ...

Polymer materials play an increasingly important role in a variety of industrial applications, thanks to their distinct physical and chemical properties. Among their key mechanical characteristics, ...