Nanotubes as nanoprobes in scanning probe microscopy | Nature

来自 : 发布时间：2025-03-31

AbstractSINCE the invention of the scanning tunnelling microscope1, the value of establishing a physical connection between the macroscopic world and individual nanometre-scale objects has become increasingly evident, both for probing these objects2鈥? and for direct manipulation5鈥? and fabrication8鈥?0 at the nanometre scale. While good progress has been made in controlling the position of the macroscopic probe of such devices to sub-氓ngstr枚m accuracy, and in designing sensitive detection schemes, less has been done to improve the probe tip itself4. Ideally the tip should be as precisely defined as the object under investigation, and should maintain its integrity after repeated use not only in high vacuum but also in air and water. The best tips currently used for scanning probe microscopy do sometimes achieve sub-nanometre resolution, but they seldom survive a \'tip crash\' with the surface, and it is rarely clear what the atomic configuration of the tip is during imaging. Here we show that carbon nanotubes11,12 might constitute well defined tips for scanning probe microscopy. We have attached individual nanotubes several micrometres in length to the silicon cantilevers of conventional atomic force microscopes. Because of their flexibility, the tips are resistant to damage from tip crashes, while their slenderness permits imaging of sharp recesses in surface topography. We have also been able to exploit the electrical conductivity of nanotubes by using them for scanning tunnelling microscopy. Subscription info for Chinese customersWe have a dedicated website for our Chinese customers. Please go to naturechina.com to subscribe to this journal.Go to naturechina.comRent or Buy articleGet time limited or full article access on ReadCube.from$8.99Rent or BuyAll prices are NET prices. CommentsBy submitting a comment you agree to abide by our Terms and Community Guidelines. If you find something abusive or that does not comply with our terms or guidelines please flag it as inappropriate. Sign up for the Nature Briefing newsletter 鈥?what matters in science, free to your inbox daily.