Expanding Functionality of Atomic Force Microscopy with High-Speed Environmental Studies

ABSTRACTEnvironmental atomic force microscopy (AFM) study of brush macromolecules, polymer blends and bitumen was performed with regular and Quick Scan imaging. Condensation of different vapors on sample surface has induced swelling of hydrophilic domains that helps recognizing the components of heterogeneous compounds. High-resolution imaging of brush macromolecules was achieved in ethyl acetate vapor. Fast monitoring of aggregation/spreading of brush macromolecules revealed dynamics of conformational changes and molecular motion.