研究目的
Investigating the effect of the aperture edge on the ion current images in simultaneous scanning ion conductance and atomic force microscopy with a nanopore.
研究成果
The study successfully engineered a nanopore probe meeting geometry requirements identified from models and simulations to make SICM more sensitive to tip-sample separation. The nanopore probe can image features down to the nanoscale but the resulting SICM image topography is distorted because of the increased lateral dimensions of the probe. The study highlights the importance of limiting the wall dimensions of the probe when pushing toward high-resolution.
研究不足
The study reveals that the increased sensitivity of the probe current to sample distance comes with higher sensitivity to an inherent SICM wall artefact. The probe's lateral dimensions (opening angle and lateral wall thickness) lead to local current enhancement on step edges resulting in imaging step borders with excessively low resolved SICM topography artefact.
1:Experimental Design and Method Selection:
The study involved designing a probe with a nano-opening (<20 nm opening diameter) with increased outer-to-inner radius ratio and a wide opening angle through microfabrication and ion milling. The probe was used for simultaneous SICM and AFM imaging.
2:Sample Selection and Data Sources:
Experiments were conducted on well-defined samples including a PDMS calibration grid and nanoprinted gold lines.
3:List of Experimental Equipment and Materials:
The study used a FluidFM microscope adapted for ion conductance measurements, Ag/AgCl quasi-reference counter electrodes, and a Pico 2 USB-powered patch clamp amplifier.
4:Experimental Procedures and Operational Workflow:
Approach curves were recorded by moving the probe toward the glass substrate at a speed of 500 nm/s. Images were acquired using raster scanning in SICM mode or AFM contact mode.
5:Data Analysis Methods:
The study used FEM modeling to interpret the recorded current images generated as the nanopore probe is scanned above a nanoscale feature.
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