Nanoscale Nonlinear Dynamics of Carbon Nanotube Probe Tips

탄소나노튜브 탐침의 나노 비선형 동역학

Carbon nanotube (CNT) tips in tapping mode atomic force microscopy (AFM) enable very high-resolution imaging, measurements, and manipulation at the nanoscale. We present recent results based on experimental analysis that yield new insights into the dynamics of CNT probe tips in tapping mode AFM. Experimental measurements are presented of the frequency response and dynamic amplitude-distance data of a high-aspect-ratio multi-walled (MW) CNT tip to demonstrate the non-linear features including tip amplitude saturation preceding the dynamic buckling of the MWCNT. Surface scanning is performed using a MWCNT tip on a SiO$_2$ grating to verify the imaging instabilities associated with MWCNT buckling when used with normal control schemes in the tapping mode. Lastly, the choice of optimal setpoints for tapping mode control using CNT probe tip are discussed using the experimental results.