Scanning Probe Microscopes : Applications in Science and Technology

Explains, analyzes, and demonstrates the widely used member of the family of microscopes: the scanning probe microscope (SPM). Introducing the basics of SPMs, this book explores a kind of molecular species or system. It focuses on lipid-like molecules and the contribution of SPMs to our understanding of self-assembly monolayers.

Scanning Probe Microscopes: Applications in Science and Technology explains, analyzes, and demonstrates the most widely used microscope in the family of microscopes -- the scanning probe microscope. Beginning with an introduction to the development of SPMs, the author introduces the basics of scanning tunneling and atomic force microscopes (STMs and AFMs) along with other types of SPMs. He describes the different apparatus, delineates the method of calibration, and provides extensive references and experimental procedures.

Each subsequent chapter explores a different kind of molecular species or system. Lipid-like molecules and the contribution of SPMs to our understanding of self-assembly monolayers receive particular attention, as do applications involving macromolecules, such as DNA, and those related to nanotechnology.

The author brings to this project his recent, intensive involvement with state-of-the-art STM and AFM microscopes and provides both basic and advanced information in a single volume. While useful to seasoned researchers, Scanning Probe Microscopes will prove especially valuable to newcomers to the field, both as a textbook and as a guide to the expansive literature.