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Sensing interactions between molecules

Physicists and chemists at the University of Münster have developed a microscopic method to image organic molecules with exceptional resolution. The technique uses an atomically defined probe tip that greatly increases imaging resolution by reducing undesired interaction between atoms.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateApr 11, 2018
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Discovery sets new world standard in nano generators

Researchers at the University of Alberta have developed a new way to produce high-density DC current, vastly improving over existing triboelectric nanogenerators. The discovery enables continuous flow of electricity from nanoscale movement and vibration, opening up potential applications in sensors, wearable devices, and more.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 11, 2017

Bringing the atomic world into full color

A French and Japanese research group developed a new way to turn AFM measurements into clear color images, enabling observation of materials and substances like alloys, semiconductors, and chemical compounds. The newly developed method holds promise for becoming widely used in the research and development of surfaces and devices.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 17, 2017

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, October 2017

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a method to detect network intrusions in connected and autonomous vehicles, with near-perfect detection rates in initial testing. Additionally, scientists have created a technique for making ultrafast measurements using atomic force microscopy, allowing for high-resolution ima...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 5, 2017

Discovery of a new mechanism for bacterial division

Researchers have found that some pathogenic bacteria use an undulating 'wave-pattern' to mark future sites of division, instead of conventional biological systems. This discovery provides new insights into how these bacteria divide and could lead to new ways to fight them.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJun 26, 2017

Drip by drip

Researchers from University of Konstanz have observed non-classical growth of crystals, where liquid preliminary stages accelerate growth rates. This finding has implications for basic research and practical applications, including faster-dissolving medicines.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 21, 2017
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Hydrogen bonds directly detected for the first time

Researchers at the University of Basel successfully studied the strength of hydrogen bonds in a single molecule using an atomic force microscope. They found that hydrogen bonds play a crucial role in the properties of molecules and macromolecules, such as water's high boiling temperature.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 12, 2017

A new dimension in chemical nanoimaging

Researchers developed hyperspectral infrared nanoimaging, enabling recording of two-dimensional arrays of nano-FTIR spectra in a few hours. This technique allows for nanoscale-resolved chemical and structural information extraction, revealing spatial distribution and spectral anomalies of individual components.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 2017

Atomic force imaging used to study nematodes

Researchers at KFU's bionanotechnology lab used atomic force microscopy (AFM) to create 3D images of nematode cuticles. The study revealed new insights into the surface anatomy of Caenorhabditis elegans, a widely used model organism in genetics and biology research.

SourceKazan Federal University·DateFeb 17, 2017

Engineers shrink microscope to dime-sized device

Researchers at UT Dallas have created a miniaturized atomic force microscope on a chip, reducing the size and potential cost of the device. This breakthrough technology has the potential to expand the instrument's utility beyond current scientific applications, including the semiconductor industry.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·DateFeb 15, 2017
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Nanowires as sensors in new type of atomic force microscope

Physicists at the University of Basel have developed a new type of atomic force microscope using nanowire sensors to measure forces with unprecedented precision. The device can detect not only the magnitude but also the direction of forces, making it a significant advancement in sensing applications.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateOct 17, 2016

Crystal clear imaging: Infrared brings to light nanoscale molecular arrangement

Researchers have developed a new way to reveal crystal features in functional materials using infrared light, allowing for detailed imaging at the nanoscale. The technique enables better design and optimization of material properties, with applications in electronics, energy conversion, and biological studies.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 14, 2016

Researchers watch catalysts at work

Physicists watched a silver catalyst at work using an atomic force microscope, calculating energy turnover and optimizing catalysis. The Ullmann reaction was observed at atomic resolution, revealing unusual spatial arrangements of intermediate products.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalSmall·DateAug 17, 2016

Tailored probes for atomic force microscopes

Researchers at KIT developed tailored probes for atomic force microscopes using 3D laser lithography, enabling precise adaptation to various biological samples. The new probes can be produced in any shape and are perfectly suited for studying nanostructures in biology and engineering.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateAug 10, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Tailored AFM probes created via 3-D direct laser writing

A team of Karlsruhe Institute of Technology researchers has developed a method to tailor AFM probes with unique designs using 3-D direct laser writing based on two-photon polymerization. The technique enables the creation of custom probes with nanoscale precision, opening up new possibilities for analyzing samples at the atomic scale.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateAug 8, 2016

Atomic force microscope reveals molecular ghosts

A team of chemists and physicists used atomic force microscopy to capture snapshots of molecules reacting on a catalyst's surface, revealing intermediate structures lasting for up to 20 minutes. This breakthrough expands the toolbox for designing new catalytic reactions and has implications for fields like materials science and medicine.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMay 9, 2016

Microscope creates near-real-time videos of nanoscale processes

Engineers at MIT have designed an atomic force microscope that scans images 2,000 times faster than existing models, capturing chemical processes taking place at the nanoscale in near-real time. The instrument produces high-resolution 'movies' of condensation, nucleation, dissolution, and deposition of material.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalUltramicroscopy·DateDec 14, 2015
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

New ORNL hybrid microscope offers unparalleled capabilities

The Hybrid Photonic Mode-Synthesizing Atomic Force Microscope combines nanospectroscopy and nanomechanical microscopy, allowing for rapid non-invasive exploration of materials' surface and subsurface. Researchers can study synthetic and biological samples with high resolution and spectroscopic capabilities.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateAug 10, 2015

Researcher uses vibrations to identify materials' composition

Researchers developed Hybrid Photonic-Nanomechanical Force Microscopy (HPFM) to identify materials' unique chemical 'fingerprints', mapping their properties at higher spatial resolution. The technology has potential applications in fields like biofuel production, solar energy and pharmaceuticals.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateAug 10, 2015

Atomic force microscope advance leads to new breast cancer research

Researchers have made a breakthrough in understanding how deactivation of a key protein leads to breast cancer metastasis. The new high-speed atomic force microscopy (AFM) technique allows for the first time to image live breast cancer cells, providing insights into the physical properties and dynamics of these cells.

SourcePurdue University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 30, 2015
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Solving an organic semiconductor mystery

Researchers discover cluttered jumble of randomly oriented nanocrystallites at interface, impeding charge-carrier mobility and device performance. A novel microscopy technique reveals the role of solution-processing methods in creating optimal film structures.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 16, 2015

ORNL microscopy pencils patterns in polymers at the nanoscale

Researchers at ORNL used atomic force microscopy to fabricate nanoscale patterns in polymerized ionic liquids, exhibiting unique properties and potential applications in lithium batteries, transistors, and solar cells. The study showcases the technique's promise for alternative nanofabrication methods.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateDec 17, 2014

Scanning tunneling microscopy: Computer simulations sharpen insights into molecules

Scientists from Forschungszentrum Jülich and the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic used computer simulations to gain deeper insights into scanning tunneling microscopy. The results show excellent agreement between experimental results and simulations, enabling the analysis of images with unprecedented accuracy.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 27, 2014

Van der Waals force re-measured

Scientists at Forschungszentrum Juelich re-measured the van der Waals force for single molecules, revealing a superlinear increase with growing molecular size. The study highlights the importance of van der Waals forces in biomolecules and adhesives, such as geckos' ability to climb smooth walls.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 26, 2014
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Laser makes microscopes way cooler

Researchers at Australian National University developed a technique to cool nanowire probes with lasers, increasing their sensitivity 20 times and enabling detection of tiny forces. This could improve the resolution of atomic force microscopes, measuring nanoscopic structures and molecular interactions.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 14, 2014

Pulling polymers leads to new insights into their mechanical behavior

Researchers at the University of Basel successfully pulled isolated molecular chains from a gold surface using atomic force microscopy. The experiment revealed the detachment force and binding energy of molecules, providing new insights into the mechanical behavior of single polymers.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2014

Nanofriction on the tip of the microscope

Researchers observed 'dissipation' peaks in NbSe2 due to frictional force, related to charge density waves. Their theoretical model reproduces experimental data, shedding light on nanofriction mechanisms underlying energy losses.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 16, 2013
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Promising new alloy for resistive switching memory

Researchers in Singapore create conductive nano-filaments in amorphous titanium dioxide thin films for resistive switching applications. The high density of uniformly distributed nano-filaments implies the possibility of making high-density memory cells, offering great advantages over current technology.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateSep 20, 2013

2 become 1 with the 3-D NanoChemiscope

The 3D NanoChemiscope enables simultaneous analysis of mechanical and chemical properties in three dimensions, revolutionizing surface analysis. By combining a scanning force microscope and high-end mass spectrometer, researchers can study the composition and structure of surfaces with unprecedented precision.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·DateAug 23, 2013

Spot-welding graphene nanoribbons atom by atom

Researchers at Aalto University and Utrecht University have successfully created single atom contacts between gold and graphene nanoribbons. This breakthrough demonstrates how to make electrical contacts with single chemical bonds to graphene nanoribbons, enabling the use of graphene nanostructures in future electronic devices.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 13, 2013
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Scientists capture first images of molecules before and after reaction

Researchers at UC Berkeley use a state-of-the-art atomic force microscope to take the first atom-by-atom pictures of chemical bonds, revealing how a molecule's structure changes during a reaction. This breakthrough technique will help chemists fine-tune reactions and study heterogeneous catalysis.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience·DateMay 30, 2013

Nanomedicines' impact on patients under the microscope

Researchers harness advanced atomic force microscopy to track nanomedicine effects on patients, revealing potential benefits in drug delivery and safety. The technique helps identify nanoparticle accumulation and tissue stiffness, offering insights into nanotoxicology and its impact on patient health.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 29, 2013
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

New imaging technology could reveal cellular secrets

Researchers have developed a new way to learn how good cells go bad by studying the mechanical and biochemical behavior of cells simultaneously. This technology combines atomic force microscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance, allowing for detailed insights into disease processes.

SourcePurdue University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 25, 2013

University of Illinois researchers develop AFM-IR for nanometer scale chemical identification

Researchers at the University of Illinois developed a novel technique called atomic force microscope infrared spectroscopy (AFM-IR) to measure chemical properties of polymer nanostructures as small as 15 nm. This technique enables accurate identification of material composition, crucial for applications in semiconductors, composite mat...

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateMar 8, 2013
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Nano-FTIR - A new era in modern analytical chemistry

Researchers developed nano-FTIR, combining s-SNOM and FTIR spectroscopy for nanoscale chemical identification and mapping. The technique offers high sensitivity and resolution, making it a unique tool for polymer chemistry, biomedicine, and pharmaceutical industry.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 27, 2012

Microscope probe-sharpening technique improves resolution, durability

A new microscope probe-sharpening technique has been developed to improve imaging resolution and durability for researchers studying tiny structures. The technique, described in Nature Communications, uses a matching voltage to deflect ions and sharpens the probe around the tip, preserving the point and increasing stability.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 6, 2012

Graphene-control cutting using an atomic force microscope-based nanorobot

Researchers have developed a closed-loop fabrication method to tailor graphene into desired edge structures and shapes. The technique uses interaction forces as real-time feedback, allowing for precise cutting control. This innovation has the potential to fabricate large-scale graphene-based nanodevices at low cost with high efficiency.

SourceScience China Press·DateMay 27, 2012
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Magnetic actuation enables nanoscale thermal analysis

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new technique for nanoscale thermal analysis, enabling rapid measurements on stiff materials. This method uses magnetic actuation to modulate the tip-sample force near the atomic scale.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNanotechnology·DateJan 12, 2012

Researchers measure nanometer scale temperature

A new kind of electro-thermal nanoprobe can independently control voltage and temperature at a nanometer-scale point contact. This probe enables the measurement of nanometer-scale properties of materials such as semiconductors, thermoelectrics, and ferroelectrics.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNanotechnology·DateDec 19, 2011
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Scientists develop new technologies for understanding bacterial infections

Researchers at the University of Bristol have developed a novel approach for studying molecules within their natural environment, allowing for unprecedented detail on bacterial infection mechanisms. The breakthrough utilizes a lateral molecular force microscope to measure biological phenomena directly on a living cell surface, enabling...

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 29, 2011

Getting the point: Real-time monitoring of atomic-microscope probes adjusts for wear

Scientists at NIST have developed a method to measure the wear and degradation of AFM tips in real time, allowing for dramatic improvements in precision and speed. This technique uses contact resonance force microscopy to track the resonant frequency of the sensor tip, enabling atomic-scale resolution and reducing inaccuracies.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalSmall·DateMar 31, 2011

AFM positioning: Shining light on a needle in a haystack

Researchers use a tightly focused, low-power laser beam to optically scan the area and identify target locations by minute changes in scattered light. This technique solves the 'needle in a haystack' problem of nanoscale microscopy, finding nanoscale objects with precision.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalOptics Express·DateNov 10, 2010
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

AFM tips from the microwave

Scientists from Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena developed a new process to grow carbon nanotubes on scanning probe tips, utilizing microwave radiation for rapid growth. The method improves the fabrication of sharp atomic force microscopy tips, reducing costs and enabling routine measurements.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalNano Letters·DateOct 21, 2010

How batteries grow old

Ohio State University researchers conducted experiments to test commercially available Li-ion batteries thousands of times, finding irreversible changes at the nanoscale that lead to battery loss of charge. The study suggests that coarsening of electrode materials may be responsible for this loss.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateOct 19, 2010

Innovation could bring super-accurate sensors, crime forensics

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a new technology enabling tiny machines to self-calibrate, leading to super-accurate sensors for crime scene forensics, environmental testing and medical diagnostics. This innovation could revolutionize fields like tracking criminal suspects and detecting hazardous substances.

SourcePurdue University·DateAug 10, 2010
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Depth charge: Using atomic force microscopy to study subsurface structures

Researchers at NIST have developed a technique using atomic force microscopy to study subsurface conditions in nanostructured composite materials. The method, which uses electrostatic forces, allows for the mapping of electric potential distribution and quantification of carbon nanotube concentrations.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNanotechnology·DateJun 23, 2010

Single-molecule manipulation for the masses

A new instrument, Centrifuge Force Microscope (CFM), uses centrifugal force to manipulate molecules, offering a low-cost and simple approach to single-molecule manipulation. This technique enables researchers to study the interactions of thousands of molecules simultaneously.

SourceHarvard University·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateJun 2, 2010