Nanoprobe spectroscopy of capillary forces and its application for a real surface diagnostics

Abstract

The paper presents an overview and analysis of the most reliable and at the same time rather simple theoretical models describing liquid nanomeniscus geometry and forces occurring between atomic force microscope (AFM) probe and a real surface. There are experimental results in capillary bridge force rupture measured in air, and interaction force under water buffer obtained over surfaces of different nature. It is shown that the theoretical models quite adequately describe the processes observed experimentally and, in particular, bridge ruptures dynamics at the vertical probe withdraw for different speeds. Discussed here are some methodological peculiarities and nanocapillary force spectroscopy diagnostic capabilities for surface energy mapping, prospects of using of a liquid nanomeniscus in local nanochemistry, nanolithography and nano-electrochemistry of a surface.