STM/STS Exypnos : for Experiment & Training

Innovative quantum / tunnelling experiments: 3D nano structures & I-V curves

Automatic tip-to-sample approach: ~ 1 nm/step

Nano-world of Daily Objects

How are data stored in CD, DVD and blu-ray disc? The 405-nm blue laser can read information recorded in pits that are only 150 nm long.
blu-ray disc
How are data stored in CD, DVD and blu-ray disc? The 405-nm blue laser can read information recorded in pits that are only 150 nm long.
Burning HOPG creates hexagonal structures on the surface. (Depth ~ 10 nm; Diameter 100 ~ 500 nm)
oxidised graphite
Burning HOPG creates hexagonal structures on the surface. (Depth ~ 10 nm; Diameter 100 ~ 500 nm)

Case Study - SEM vs STM

Cylinders with diameters of ~ 1 µm can be seen but nano-wires in the fabric could not be distinguished under SEM.
Fabric cylinders under SEM
Cylinders with diameters of ~ 1 µm can be seen but nano-wires in the fabric could not be distinguished under SEM.
STM can resolve the 40-nm nano-wires in fabric, grouped in nano-bands of 200 ~ 400 nm.
Nano-wires under STM
STM can resolve the 40-nm nano-wires in fabric, grouped in nano-bands of 200 ~ 400 nm.

 

Automatic Tip-to-Sample Approach

While the tip-to-sample approach is fully automated, the users can aslo manually perform fast Z movement or single step movement (1 nm) for optimal tip-to-sample distance.

Features & Specifications

  • Scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM) shows the three-dimensional morphology of sample surfaces at the atomic level. Nanovie STM Educa is powered by high precision tip-to-sample approach motor, making the approach process easy and quick. The open structure and space allows the users to modify or add more components for innovative quantum or tunnelling experiments under ambient conditions.

     

    Nanoscopic scanner:
    • XY Range ≈ 3.5 μm
    • Z Range ≈ 0.8 μm

     

    Optimal Physical Resolution:
    • XY Resolution ≈ 2.0 nm
    • Z Resolution ≈ 0.1 nm
    • Vibration isolation table or vacuum not required.

     

    Standard Features:
    • Scan Mode: Constant Current
    • Tip-to-sample Approach: Automatic (1 nm/step)
    • Image Size: 50 X 50 ~ 550 X 550 pts

     

    Advanced Features:
    • Spectroscopy Mode: I-V Curve
    • Nano-Lithography: Vector Writing
    • Instant Tip Restoration
    • In-Liquid Scan (Optional)

     

    The above parameters may vary depending on calibration.

  • N-terface : Scan Controlling Interface
    • Friendly graphic interface for tip approach, microscopy, spectroscopy & lithography
    • Real-time imaging and parameter modifications
    • Demonstration modes for teaching and presentation
    N-mage : Professional Image Processing & Data Analysis
    • Visualise the true surface : De-slope, noise reduction, Fourier transform and other filters.
    • Enhance surface characteristics : 3D display with lighting effects, plus a variety of palettes available.
    • All-around analysis : Line profiling, height histogram, roughness estimation, volume / perimeter calculation, island number counting.

  • Nanovie Auto Tip Maker (ATM) can produce up to 6 probe tips per batch, alleviating the troubles to make tips manually. Each tip has a curvature radius of about 15 nm, offering superior and reliable resolving power even for UHV STM.

    Automatic Tip Maker:
    • Tip Curvature Radius ~ 15 nm
    • 6 Tips / Batch (~ 15 minutes)
    • One push button. Computer not required.

  • STM Main Body:

    • Dimension (mm): 330 X 110 X 200(H)
    • Weight (kg): 3.5 kg

     

    Electronic Controller:

    • Dimension (mm): 170 X 145 X 75 (H)
    • Weight (kg): 1.5 kg

     

    Accessories:

    • Magnetic Tip Holder & TungstenTips
    • Standard Samples (DVD, Blu-ray Disc, Oxidised HOPG, etc)
    • Liquid Cell & Insulated Tips (Optional)