Conductive AFM

Conductive Atomic Force Microscopy (C-AFM) is an AFM technique that allows for simultaneous measurement of sample topography and electrical properties at the nanoscale. This powerful mode is crucial for characterising a wide range of materials, from semiconductors to biological samples, offering unprecedented insights into local conductivity variations.

Manufacturer

CSI

CSInstruments is a French scientific equipment manufacturer specialised in the conception of Atomic Force Microscope and options designed for existing AFM (Nano-Observer AFM, Resiscope™, High Voltage Amplifier, Magnetic modules). The product range proposed by CSInstruments is designed and manufactured to help the scientific community to achieve nanometre performances that meet the research needs and requirements for actual and future nanoscience applications.

CSInstruments was founded by a team of experts working in AFM field for more than 20 years, starting as pioneer with some historical manufacturers. CSInstruments activity is also based on a qualified and dynamic team, experienced in the fields of mechanics, electronics and data processing. This expertise ensures innovation and performance in the production of AFM and achieves an excellent price/performance ratio!

Key Features

  • Wide Current Range: Measure currents from pA to µA
  • High Spatial Resolution: Achieve lateral resolution down to a few nanometers
  • Simultaneous Topography: Correlate electrical properties with surface features
  • Spectroscopy Capabilities: Perform local I-V curve measurements
  • Integration with Other Modes: Combine C-AFM with mechanical or thermal property mapping

How does Conductive AFM work?

C-AFM operates by scanning a conductive AFM tip across the sample surface while applying a bias voltage. The resulting current flow is measured, allowing for:

  1. High-resolution mapping of current distribution

  2. Quantitative measurements of local conductivity

  3. Identification of conductive pathways and defects

Applications

Semiconductor Research

  • Characterisation of dopant distributions
  • Analysis of thin film solar cells
  • Investigation of nanoelectronic devices

Materials Science

  • Study of conductive polymers and composites
  • Examination of corrosion processes
  • Analysis of battery electrode materials

Nanotechnology

  • Characterisation of carbon nanotubes and graphene
  • Development of nanoscale sensors and actuator​

Energy Research

  • Optimisation of photovoltaic materials
  • Investigation of fuel cell components
  • Study of energy storage materials

Biology and Medicine

  • Analysis of conductive biomaterials
  • Investigation of cellular electrical properties
  • Development of biosensors

Service Support

Comprehensive repairs and servicing

Annual Support Programs

Your metrology instrumentation is a major investment that is critical to your business operation and success. In today’s competitive climate, it is more important than ever to extend the functionality and peak performance of your metrology equipment years beyond the expiration of your factory warranty. CN Tech’s Support Programs will help ensure that your investment is protected, and that you and your instrument’s are always operating at peak performance.

With over 20 years’ experience servicing and repairing you can be assured that your system is in safe hands. The independent services we offer include system relocation, maintenance visits, parts and consumables, and break down interventions.

CN Tech’s Support Programs are an economical way to guarantee optimal working condition:

  • Annual Preventive Maintenance
  • Priority Technical Assistance
  • Preferred Parts Availability
  • On-Site User Training
  • Remote Diagnostics
  • No surprise repair expense and much more!

Support Contact Example

An example of our service and support contracts are shown below:

Brochures

Metrology & Instrumentation Annual Support Programs 2024/25

CN Tech's Support Programs will help ensure that your investment is protected, and that you and your instrument’s are always operating at peak performance.

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