Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) (1.5 ECTS), 12-16 December 2024

Course Instructor

Roushdey Salh, Department of Physics, Umeå University.

Course description

Atomic-force microscopy (AFM) is a powerful technique that can image almost any type of surfaces, including polymers, ceramics, composites, glass, and biological samples. It is a type of SPM with demonstrated resolution on the order of fractions of a nanometer. The information in this technique is gathered by "feeling" or "touching" the surface with a mechanical probe.

The AFM has different modes: topographic imaging, force measurement, current measurements and many others (atomic manipulation, scanning probe lithography and local stimulation of cells).

The course is designed to provide fundamental concepts and practical knowledge on AFM in its relation to materials science and some biological samples. Participants will have the opportunity to make their own experience in preparing samples, operating various AFM imaging modes and analysing the AFM pictures.

The course includes a full day(s) of practical training. The training will be performed in small groups, with a maximum of 2-3 participants per time, to give every participant the chance to test all the borders of the AFM.

The training will be performed on Park NX-Hivac AFM system.

Course Vision

• To be able to use any AFM.
• Explain and differentiate between the various AFM operation modes.
• Interpret and discuss results obtained by AFM.
• Prepare samples suitable for AFM experiments.

Course Date

12-16 December 2024

Application

Application deadline: 7 December 2024.

Qualifications required

The participant must have attended a cleanroom technology course. The training will be in the cleanroom.

Level

MSc students, PhD students and post-doctored.
The course is developed for people who are relatively new in using AFM and for people planning to improve their skills in AFM.

Language

On-demand (English or Swedish)

Credits

Participants receive 1.5 ECTS credits for completing the course.

Number of participants

Limited to only 12 participants/course, a minimum of 2 participants. Priority will be given to participants with a long-term AFM using plan.

Course layout

Day 1: Full day lectures.

Part I: Introduction to AFM and the theory of AFM. 
Part II: Software and techniques of the AFM.

Day 2: Full day practice.

Training of 4-6 participants in two shifts (2-3 participants per time)

Day 3: Full day practice (Optional).

Training of 4-6 participants in two shifts (2-3 participants per time)