Atomic force microscopy of liquid-covered surfaces: Atomic resolution images

Images of graphite surfaces that are covered with oil reveal the hexagonal rings of carbon atoms. Images of a sodium chloride surface, protected from moisture by oil, exhibit a monoatomic step. Together, these images demonstrate the potential of atomic force microscopy (AFM) for studying both conducting and nonconducting surfaces, even surfaces covered with liquids. Our AFM uses a cross of double wires with an attached diamond stylus as a force sensor. The force constant is ≊40 N/m. The resonant frequency is ≊3 kHz. The lateral and vertical resolutions are 0.15 nm and 5 pm.