Nanoscience using Scanning Probe Microscopy

This module focuses on scanning probe microscopes (SPM) as powerful tools to both explore and further manipulate the nanoworld. The ability of scanning probe techniques to visualize surfaces in real space and to characterize and even trigger physical and chemical processes on the atomic level renders invaluable to physics, chemistry, materials science, and biology. Specifically, this course will cover the following methods:

• Scanning tunneling microscopy (and spectroscopy)
• Atomic force microscopy (and spectroscopy)
• Scanning near-field optical microscopy

The underlying fundamental principles of the methodology and the experimental implementation of each technique is studied. Particular emphasis will be put on seminal experimental studies highlighting the potential of scanning probe microscopy to unveil nanoscale phenomena. We will learn on the application of SPM to obtain structural, electronic, magnetic, chemical and mechanical characterization of surfaces and surface nanostructures with spatiotemporal resolution. Furthermore, we will see how SPM can be used as a bottom up nanotechnology method via controlled manipulation of individual atoms and molecules.

After successful completion of the module the students are able to:

1.     Describe the theoretical background and experimental setup of the visited scanning probe techniques

2.     Put into perspective their range of application

3.     Critically evaluate current studies using SPM

4.     Design SPM experiments

While there are no strict requirements, previous exposure to quantum mechanics, thermal physics and the basic notions of atomic, molecular & condensed matter physics will be helpful.

The lectures are thematically structured and a handout of the slides is uploaded in the moodle platform before each lecture. Each lecture commences with a clear outline of the learning objectives. Concepts are linked to prior knowledge acquired both in the general course of study and within the topics covered in this module. Projected slides are used for the lecture presentation, while important concepts are illustrated and highlighted in hand writing/drawing.

Laboratory visits guided by experts enhance the insight in the current applications of surface and nanoscale science will be organised subject to ongoing physical restrictions due to COVID.

Question sheets provide the means of self-evaluation. Handouts and course announcements are also communicated via the Moodle platform. 

Power point presentation, blackboard work, lecture notes, question sheets, lab visits, supplementary literature.

Recommended textbooks:

• R. Wiesendanger: Scanning Probe Microscopy and Spectroscopy:Methods and Applications, Cambridge University Press, 1994
• B. Voigtländer: Scanning Probe Microscopy: Atomic Force Microscopy and Scanning Tunneling Microscopy, Springer, 2015

The literature is based largely on journal articles. The lecture handouts contain hyperlinks of all relevant material available via the TUM library.

There will be an oral exam of 30 minutes duration. Therein the achievement of the competencies given in section learning outcome is tested exemplarily at least to the given cognition level using comprehension questions, discussion guided by schemes and simple formulas.

For example an assignment in the exam might be:

• Which AFM measurement modes do you know and what are the differences between them?
• Draw a scheme of the setup of a scanning tunneling microscope.
• How can one get spin-sensitive STM measurements.