Automatization of nanotomography

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Nanotomography is crucial for high-resolution 3D imaging at the nanoscale.
• Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM) offers versatile surface analysis capabilities.
• In situ processing within SPM liquid cells enables sequential imaging and modification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an automated nanotomography approach using SPM.
• To enable in situ layer-by-layer imaging and etching within a liquid cell.
• To demonstrate high-resolution nanoscale imaging of biological samples.

Main Methods:

• An automated nanotomography system integrating stepwise etching and imaging in an SPM liquid cell.
• Control of etching and rinsing solutions via solenoid valves for automated protocols.
• Correction of thermal and piezo scanner drift using cross-correlation analysis of successive images.
• Tapping mode SPM combined with hydrochloric acid etching for sample preparation.

Main Results:

• Successful implementation of an automated nanotomography workflow.
• Achieved approximately 10 nm resolution in imaging human bone.
• Demonstrated the feasibility of in situ etching and imaging for nanoscale structural analysis.

Conclusions:

• The developed automated nanotomography approach provides a robust method for high-resolution nanoscale imaging.
• In situ processing within SPM liquid cells significantly enhances imaging efficiency and accuracy.
• This technique shows promise for detailed nanoscale characterization of biological tissues and other materials.