Expertise
Imaging Platforms
KEYWORDS - LIGHT MICROSCOPY: SUPERRESOLUTION MICROSCOPY | ATOMIC FORCE MICROSCOPY | RAMAN IMAGING
OTHER - S-SNOW | TIP-ENHANCED | NANO-FTIR
Our system is primarily based around scattering-type, scanning near-field microscopy (s-SNOM), with capabilities from 450nm - 1600nm across the visible-NIR region, and from 600 - 2500 wavenumbers across the MIR region. We also have nano-FTIR and tapping AFM-IR capabilities in the MIR, and tip-enhanced PL and tip-enhanced Raman capabilities.
Applications
KEYWORDS - BIOLOGICAL: CELL BIOLOGY | MICROBIOLOGY
KEYWORDS - PHYSICAL SCIENCES: PLASMONICS | NANOMATERIALS
The main consideration for sample preparation is whether or the sample is suitable for air-based AFM. So loose particles, liquids, or extremely rough surfaces are not appropriate. In addition, it is beneficial if your sample is not extremely sensitive to light, oxygen, or water vapour. Otherwise your sample should be suitable, please get in touch to confirm.
Sample Preparation
KEYWORDS - SOFTWARE: MATLAB
OTHER: Gwyddion
Data analysis is typically conducted through the open-source software Gwyddion, which applies basic corrections to AFM and s-SNOM data. For deeper analysis, we have Matlab code available for use. We have prepared a guide that gives an overview on how to properly apply basic corrections and analysis to your data.
Shared Access
Please get in touch to discuss your experimental ideas, and we can decide how best to proceed and book a measurement slot for you. Typically I will perform the measurements for you as the equipment is quite specialised, however if you are interested in a longer set of experiments we can train you on the equipment.
Funding
This facility is funded through the EPSRC and is free to use until November 2024.