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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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Updated: Apr 17, 2026

Sub-nanometer Resolution Imaging with Amplitude-modulation Atomic Force Microscopy in Liquid

Sub-nanometer Resolution Imaging with Amplitude-modulation Atomic Force Microscopy in Liquid

Published on: December 20, 2016

Surface microstructure of bitumen characterized by atomic force microscopy.

Xiaokong Yu¹, Nancy A Burnham², Mingjiang Tao¹

¹Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA.

Advances in Colloid and Interface Science

|February 14, 2015

Summary

Bitumen's surface microstructures, like "bee-structures," are influenced by molecular interactions, not single components. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) reveals these complex patterns, aiding material science development.

Keywords:

Asphalt binder Atomic force microscopy Bitumen Surface microstructures Wax ‘Bee-structures’

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Area of Science:

Materials Science
Chemical Engineering
Surface Science

Background:

Bitumen, or asphalt binder, is crucial in asphalt concrete, damping systems, paints, and inks.
Its complex hydrocarbon composition with heteroatoms and metals leads to rich surface microstructures affecting rheology.
Understanding these microstructures is key to optimizing bitumen's performance in various applications.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the current understanding of bitumen surface microstructures characterized by Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM).
To discuss the origins and formation mechanisms of diverse bitumen microstructures, including the controversial 'bee-structures'.
To identify challenges and future directions for AFM characterization of bitumen.

Main Methods:

Characterization of bitumen surface microstructures using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM).
Analysis of factors influencing microstructure development, including crude oil source, thermal history, and sample preparation.
Review of proposed mechanisms for microstructure formation, such as curvature elasticity and surface wrinkling.

Main Results:

Bitumen microstructures vary widely, from fine and flake-like domains to common 'bee-structures'.
'Bee-structures' formation is attributed to complex molecular interactions among bitumen components, not a single fraction.
AFM has advanced morphological characterization, but the link between surface and bulk structures requires further investigation.

Conclusions:

Molecular interactions, not isolated fractions, govern bitumen's diverse microstructures.
Further research combining AFM with other analytical techniques is needed to link bitumen chemistry to its microstructural and mechanical properties.
Developing structure-related models for bituminous materials across different length scales is a key future goal.