Force Imaging
Force Calibration (Contact Mode AFM)
198
MultiMode SPM Instruction Manual
Rev. B
11.4.4 Interpreting Force Curves
An examination of force curves can prove useful in determining adhesion, hardness, and elastic
characteristics of samples. The examples in
represent some of the general variations in
force curves. For more information regarding force imaging, refer to Veeco’s application note
Probing Nano-Scale Forces with the Atomic Force Microscope
.
Figure 11.4e
Force Curve Examples
Large adhesion
Small adhesion
Stiff sample
Soft sample
Long-range repulsion
Long-range attraction
Plastic Deformation