Journal of Biotechnology & Biomaterials
Open Access

Abstract

Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) is a powerful imaging technique that has also emerged as an indispensible technique for measuring mechanical properties of biomaterials and biological samples. It provides high spatial resolution and force sensitivity within physiologically relevant environments in the kPa to GPa elastic modulus range. To respond to the large diversity of material properties a variety of AFM techniques can provide the most relevant or accurate data for every application. Here we are reviewing a large number of available techniques and how they apply to different types of biomaterials, as well as different stages of fabrication, quality control and testing. In particular we will review and compare the following techniques: Force Curve Measurements, Fast Force Mapping, Phase Imaging, Loss Tangent Imaging and AM-FM (Amplitude Modulation-Frequency Modulation). AM-FM mode, for example, delivers high-resolution topographical images and simultaneously measures quantitative contact stiffness data, from which elastic modulus can be calculated with appropriate models for the tip-sample contact mechanics. With the growing demand for mechanical characterization of materials at the nanoscale, the AM-FM technique provides quantitative nanomechanical information, while simultaneously offering all the familiar advantages of tapping mode. Together all these AFM different techniques can be used on any biomaterial and measure a wide range of properties including elastic stiffness, loss and storage modulus, viscous damping, adhesion, and hardness. This short review should help determining which technique to choose based on the research goals and the samples.

Biography

Email: Irene.Revenko@oxinst.com