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Atomic Force Microscopy

Atomic Force Microscopy

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is a type of scanning probe microscopy that can analyze topographic details of various specimens like ceramics, glass, polymers, and biological samples. AFM offers over 1000 times more resolution than the optical imaging system. Images generated from AFM are three-dimensional surface profiles, offering an advantage over the flat, two-dimensional images from other imaging techniques.
The AFM Probe
The probe is regarded as the heart of any AFM setup and comprises the...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 11, 2026

Investigating Single Molecule Adhesion by Atomic Force Spectroscopy

Investigating Single Molecule Adhesion by Atomic Force Spectroscopy

Published on: February 27, 2015

Functionalization of probe tips and supports for single-molecule recognition force microscopy.

Andreas Ebner¹, Linda Wildling, Rong Zhu

¹University of Linz, Institute of Biophysics, Altenberger Str. 69, A-4040, Linz, Austria.

Topics in Current Chemistry

|May 3, 2013

Summary

This review details methods for converting force microscope tips into highly sensitive monomolecular sensors by attaching ligand molecules. These functionalized tips enable precise study of receptor-ligand interactions and mapping of target molecules on surfaces.

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Area of Science:

Surface science
Biophysics
Nanotechnology

Background:

Force microscopy tips can be functionalized with ligand molecules to act as monomolecular sensors.
These sensors are crucial for studying receptor-ligand interactions and mapping molecules on surfaces.

Purpose of the Study:

To review and describe methods for functionalizing force microscope tips and immobilizing target molecules.
To provide guidance for selecting appropriate functionalization strategies for specific research needs.

Main Methods:

Describes multi-step functionalization of silicon nitride tips, silicon chips, and mica (aminofunctionalization, crosslinker attachment, ligand coupling).
Details methods for gold-covered tips/supports using self-assembled monolayers and ligand coupling.
Includes simplified and single-step methods like adsorption and chemisorption.

Main Results:

Numerous crosslinkers are available for diverse ligand molecule coupling.
Direct or crosslinker-mediated coupling of ligands/receptors onto gold surfaces is effective.
Simplified methods can be highly efficient under specific conditions.

Conclusions:

The review offers a comprehensive overview of tip and support functionalization techniques.
It aims to assist researchers in choosing suitable methods for their specific force microscopy applications.