Phase Imaging (AC Mechanical Contrast)
Phase Imaging, also known as AC Mechanical Contrast, is a powerful Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) mode used to map material properties like stiffness, adhesion, and viscoelasticity. By analysing the phase shift of the oscillating probe, this mode reveals nanoscale variations in mechanical contrast, making it ideal for materials science, polymers, and nanotechnology applications.
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
- Material Property Mapping: Quantify stiffness, adhesion, and viscoelastic differences with high sensitivity
- High Spatial Resolution: Detect nanoscale variations in mechanical properties
- Non-Destructive Imaging: Suitable for fragile and soft samples
- Multimodal Integration: Combine with other AFM modes for comprehensive analysis
- Versatility: Works in air, liquid, or controlled environments
How does Phase Imaging work?
Phase Imaging analyses the phase shift between the probe oscillation and the drive signal as the tip interacts with the sample. This phase shift reflects differences in mechanical properties, such as adhesion and stiffness, enabling detailed mechanical property mapping at the nanoscale.
Specifications
| Resolution | Sub-nanometre in vertical resolution |
| Phase Sensitivity | Detects subtle variations in stiffness and adhesion |
| Operating Environments | Air, liquid, and controlled conditions |
| Applications | Polymers, nanocomposites, biological samples, and 2D materials |
Applications
Polymers and Composites
- Map stiffness and adhesion variations in polymer blends
- Analyse phase separation in composite materials
Biological Samples
- Study the mechanical properties of cells and tissues
- Investigate biomaterial surfaces for medical applications
2D Materials and Nanotechnology
- Characterise nanoscale properties of graphene and other 2D materials
- Evaluate the homogeneity of thin films and coatings
Related Products
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:
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.