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Sample Mounting for Fluid Applications

Samples must be immobilized on a rigid support for optimal AFM imaging results. Macroscopic samples (such as crystals, or polymer membranes) can be attached directly to a stainless steel sample disk with an adhesive (see Small Sample Preparation). Biological samples such as cells, proteins, and DNA are usually bound to a flat substrate like mica or glass. Many sample preparations protocols have been developed and AFM applications articles are an excellent source of information on sample binding.

NOTE: For a list of articles describing biological applications of AFM, including sample preparation techniques, contact Bruker.

Caution/Attention/Vorsicht:

Do not attempt to operate the standard air probe holder in a fluid environment. The standard probe holder has exposed electrical signal lines that could short circuit if exposed to a conducting fluid.
En milieu liquide, ne pas utiliser le support de pointe standard prévu pour une utilisation à l’air. Le support de pointe standard présente des contacts électriques qui peuvent être endommagés (court-circuit) suite à une exposition à un liquide conducteur d’électricité.
Versuchen Sie nicht, den Standard-Luft-Cantileverhalter in Flüssigkeiten zu betreiben. Am Standard-Cantileverhalter liegen elektrische Leitungen frei, die in leitfähigen Flüssigkeiten kurzgeschlossen werden könnten.

Larger Samples

For larger samples, it may be preferable to image a small region under a drop of fluid.

Put the drop of fluid onto the sample.
Lower the AFM fluid probe holder into the drop.

Smaller Samples

Alternatively, you may choose to image smaller samples totally immersed in a liquid bath.

Place the sample in a plastic petri dish.

NOTE: If you wish to construct a custom sample holder, please contact Bruker for more information.

Secure the sample to the bottom of the petri dish lid or other sample holder with epoxy or other non water-soluble adhesive.

HINT: For non-critical applications, Devcon 2-Ton Epoxy works well. For applications where contamination control is more critical, use a more inert, solvent-free epoxy like Master Bond EP21LV, EP21AR, or a hot melt adhesive.

Follow the manufacturer's directions for mixing and curing to obtain the best resistance to leaching and chemical attack. For lower resolution applications where it is desirable to image a sample quickly without waiting for an adhesive to cure, you can use double-sided tape as long as fluid never touches the tape.

NOTE: Do not use cyanoacrylate glue (e.g. Super Glue) for mounting samples in fluid.

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