The ability to detect localized forces over a large dynamic range allows access to phenomena as fine as breaking of a single bond and stiffness of a cell, and as large as fracture of ceramics and engineering composites. These measurements are made with spatial resolution in the nanometer range, allowing mapping of local stiffness in parallel with topographic imaging. Both the AFM and dedicated instrumented nanoindentor are available for these studies. Nanomechanical measurements include elastic modulus, hardness, adhesion, friction, and wear.
AFM nanomechanical measurements can also be conducted under solution, under physiological relevant conditions. Finally by monitoring the force interaction of the tip with the sample while approaching and retracting from the sample, molecular detachment forces and wetting properties of nanotubes attached to the AFM cantilever are measured.
IIsr. J. Chem. 60, 1171 – 1184 (2020)
Nanomechanics of dentin
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Characterization of reduced-wear surfaces
Beilstein Journal of Nanotechnology 5, 1005 (2014)
Finite Element Simulations
J. Phys. Chem. C. 117, 22232 (2013)
Mechanics of Bone
J. Biomechanics 47, 367 (2014)
Mechanical properties of Red blood cells
Nature Communications 12:1172 (2021)
Nanomechanics of cells
Nature Physics 15, 515-522 (2018)
Nanotube wetting properties
Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci. 113, 13624 (2016)