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PUBLICATIONS

Prototype cantilevers for quantitative lateral force microscopy

Published

Author(s)

Mark Reitsma, Richard S. Gates, Lawrence H. Friedman, Robert F. Cook

Abstract

Prototype cantilevers that enable quantitative micro- to nano-scale surface force measurements using contact-mode atomic force microscopy (AFM) are presented. The “Hammerhead” cantilevers allow precise optical lever system calibrations for cantilever flexure and torsion, thus enabling quantitative friction measurements by lateral force microscopy at ultra-small scales—critically, the calibration can be performed in situ with force measurements, greatly increasing force measurement precision and accuracy. A methodology is presented for precise AFM instrument calibration and demonstrated to yield sub-percent relative uncertainties for optical-lever torque sensitivity on two different instruments. Finite element analysis of the loaded cantilevers, to assess the accuracy of the calibration methodology, indicates measurement errors of a few percent at most. The cantilevers are compatible with commercial AFM instrumentation and can be used for other AFM techniques such as contact imaging and dynamic mode measurements.
Citation
Review of Scientific Instruments
Pub Type
Journals

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Keywords

atomic force microscopy, AFM, friction, lateral force microscopy, LFM
Metrology, Nanotechnology and Standards

Citation

Reitsma, M. , Gates, R. , Friedman, L. and Cook, R. (2011), Prototype cantilevers for quantitative lateral force microscopy, Review of Scientific Instruments, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=907018 (Accessed October 11, 2025)

Issues

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Created September 27, 2011, Updated February 19, 2017
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