Pacific Nanotechnology, Inc.
(PNI), the global leader in high-performance, easy-to-use, and affordable
atomic force microscopes (AFMs), has developed critical atomic force
microscopy applications for the nanotribology (lubrication at the molecular
level) field. This is the latest step in PNI's mission to facilitate the
growth and expansion of nanotechnology in multiple markets.
"Research on tribology at nanometer dimensions plays a critical role in
diverse technological areas," said Paul West, vice president of products and
chief technology officer for PNI. "We are pleased to facilitate this research
by providing high-performance AFM technology at an affordable cost for the
nanotribology market and working directly with researchers to help them attain
results."
In the semiconductor and data storage industries, tribological studies
help optimize polishing processes and lubrication of data storage substrates.
Many other industrial processes are beginning to require a detailed
understating of tribology and lubrication at the nanometer level. Development
of lubricants in the automobile industry depends on the adhesion of
monomolecular layers to a materials surface. Assembly of components can depend
critically on adhesion of materials at the nanometer-length scale. The AFM can
be routinely used on all types of materials including ceramics, metals,
polymers, semiconductors, magnetic and optical surfaces, and biomaterials. AFM
investigations are usually made in ambient air, although it is also possible
to make AFM studies in a vacuum or liquid environment.
A technical applications note, "Atomic Force Microscopy for NanoTribology
Applications," is available in PDF format at
http://www.pacificnanotech.com/apps/tribology.pdf.
