Specialized Applications

AFMs are the most efficient tool to measure filtration membranes at the micro and nanoscale for manufacturing quality control. The datasets enable users to extract quantitative and statistical 3D data and perform stiffness measurements to troubleshoot manufacturing processes. These experiments can also be performed in liquid to measure physical changes of the membrane when in use. In addition to the membrane, the filtrate and the filter cake can also be analyzed in order to tune properties and for failure analysis.

Because the probe is in direct contact with the sample surface, AFMs have the unique capability to measure forces at the nanoscale, and even do this while the probe is submerged in liquid. An AFM mounted on an inverted light microscope additionally allows to correlate these measurements with light microscopy techniques.

AFM is a rapid method to analyze purified microbial cultures from suspensions or on agar plates, dry or in liquid.

Biomaterials are materials that are designed to interact with biological systems, or materials made from biological sources. The complexity of advanced materials and biological systems creates numerous challenges in micro- and nanoscale characterization. The versatility of atomic force microscopy enables us to approach this subject from both a materials and biology perspective to deliver quantitative imaging and mechanical data with angstrom resolution.

AFMs are the fastest and most affordable tool to image DNA for research and quality control in molecular biology, synthetic biology, and gene therapy. The AFM enables researchers to rapidly assess the quality of DNA, potential fragmentation, fragment length, and any contaminations. In addition, structural elements such as hairpins and supercoiling can be observed. Our expertise allows us to consistently prepare and measure single- and double-stranded DNA constructs.

Amyloids aggregate from nanometer-size monomers, to protofibrils around 10 nm in diameter and ultimately to micrometer-size structures. This process is associated with over 50 human diseases, collectively known as amyloidosis. These include common neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. All stages of aggregation can be resolved in an AFM.

AFM is the simplest, most affordable imaging tool for education, research and quality control at the nanoscale. Learn how it works and what you can do with it, starting with exploring nanobiology in high school and later in biomedical research.

Most viruses are 20-300 nm in diameter and well within the range of AFM resolution. AFM can also easily image capsid fragments and even released viral genomes. The intuitive design and affordability of our systems enable our customers to rapidly perform quality control experiments and extract statistical nanoscale data for applications such as gene therapy.

How can we teach serendipity in STEM education and research? Try an atomic force microscope for hands-on nanobiology with your students.

Microbial biofilms are complex environments consisting of microbial cells and a dense extracellular matrix made of molecular components. The AFM allows us to rapidly access both the cell structure as well as nanoscale structures within the matrix.

Biological structures span an immense range of sizes, from macroscopic organs visible to the naked eye down to the incredibly tiny components at the molecular level. To truly understand the intricate architecture and function of life, scientists rely on advanced imaging techniques that can bridge this vast scale. But how big or small are these structures and how do they relate to each other?

Microbiomes are complex communities of microbes that occupy specific habitats. The AFM is especially interesting for the analysis of human microbiomes, allowing us to visualize the distinct types of microbes in each anatomical site and their interaction with human epithelial cells.

How do AFMs compare with TEM and SEM in life sciences? These three microscope technologies deliver complementary information, with AFM being unique in its ability to deliver quantitative 3D and nanomechanical data in liquids.

An AFM mounted on an inverted light microscope delivers correlative atomic force - light microscopy data on cells. This allows users to perform established light microscopy experiments and rapidly acquire nanoscale-resolution data of subcellular features.

AFM is the only nanocharacterization method that delivers mechanical information about the sample surface. Phase imaging is the most straightforward mode to access mechanical data in biomaterials.