Present and Future of Nanomechanics by Atomic Force Microscope

Abstract

Nanomechanics based on atomic force microscope (AFM) is reviewed. Tapping-mode phase imaging gives information of energy dissipative process during the contact between AFM probe and elastic or viscoelastic surface, which includes adhesive interaction as well as viscoelastic loss. The understanding of time-temperature superposition principle is crucial to interpret the data correctly. AFM nanomechanics based on “ slow ” force-distance curve analysis can also offer a lot of insights on materials ʼ mechanical properties. Young ʼ s modulus, adhesive force and viscoelastic work can be imaged. The paper devotes AFM analysis of block copolymer-type thermoplastic elastomer, in order to interconnect nanoscopic information and macroscopic mechanical properties evaluation, in which a new mathematical approach, computational homology may play an important role.