Size Measurement of Nanoparticles using Atomic Force Microscopy

Published

January 1, 2011

Author(s)

Jaroslaw Grobelny, Frank W. DelRio, Pradeep Namboodiri, Doo-In Kim, Vincent A. Hackley, Robert F. Cook

Abstract

This chapter outlines procedures for sample preparation and the determination of nanoparticle size using atomic force microscopy (AFM). To start, procedures for dispersing gold nanoparticles on various surfaces such that they are suitable for imaging and height measurement via intermittent contact mode, or tapping mode, AFM are described. The methods for AFM calibration and operation to make such measurements are then discussed. Finally, the techniques for data analysis and reporting are provided. The example nanoparticles considered are National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Au nanoparticle Reference Materials RM 8011 (nominally 10 nm particles), RM 8012 (nominally 30 nm), and RM 8013 (nominally 60 nm).

Citation

Methods in Molecular Medicine, Characterization of Nanoparticles Intended for Clinical Applications

Publisher Info

Humana Press, Totowa, NJ

Pub Type

Books

Keywords

Nanoparticles, atomic force microscopy

Citation

Grobelny, J. , DelRio, F. , Namboodiri, P. , Kim, D. , Hackley, V. and Cook, R. (2011), Size Measurement of Nanoparticles using Atomic Force Microscopy, Humana Press, Totowa, NJ (Accessed October 10, 2025)