Environmental Control

Environmental Control for AFM

Precision Measurements in Controlled Atmospheres

Environmental control is crucial for obtaining accurate, reproducible results in advanced Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) applications. CSInstruments' Atmosphere Control accessory for the Nano-Observer AFM allows researchers to conduct experiments in precisely controlled environments, opening new possibilities for materials characterization and nanoscale studies.

Application fields

Key Features

Environmental Control

  • Isolated Chamber: Create a controlled volume around the AFM setup
  • Gas Control: Introduce inert gases or control atmospheric composition
  • Humidity Regulation: Precise control of relative humidity (RH) from near 0% to high levels
  • Rapid Response: Fast and accurate changes in environmental conditions
  • Compact Design: Small chamber volume for quick equilibration
  • Software Integration: Seamless control through the Nano-Observer AFM interface

Why Choose CSInstruments for Environmental Control?

HD-KFM on HOPG, Humidity Control (70%), effect over the time, 30μm scan

  1. Integrated Solution: Designed specifically for the Nano-Observer AFM
  2. Versatility: Compatible with a wide range of AFM modes and applications
  3. Precision: Achieve reproducible results in controlled atmospheres
  4. User-Friendly: Easy to set up and operate through intuitive software
  5. Expert Support: Our team provides guidance for optimal environmental control in your research

AFM & Glovebox

For ultimate environmental control, the Nano-Observer AFM series can be integrated into glovebox setups:

  • Compact AFM design for easy glovebox integration
  • External probe mounting for convenience
  • Software-controlled operation minimizes in-box manipulations
  • Complete isolation from ambient conditions

This configuration includes:

  • Nano-Observer AFM
  • Anti-vibration table
  • Acoustic isolation box

The result is a high-performance AFM system with minimal external interference, reduced sample contamination, and improved measurement accuracy.

afm in glovebox

Specifications

  • Chamber Volume: 451 cm³
  • Humidity Range: Near 0% to 95% RH (application dependent)
  • Gas Compatibility: Inert gases, dry air, nitrogen
  • Response Time: < 5 minutes for major RH changes (system dependent)
  • Temperature Stability: ±0.1°C (when equipped with temperature control)

Application Fields

Enhanced Electrical Measurements

  • Ideal for HD-KFM, ResiScope, SMIM, and EFM modes
    Prevent local oxidation effects by controlling humidity
  • Achieve reproducible results in various atmospheric conditions

Oxidation Studies

  • Precise control of relative humidity for oxidation kinetics research
  • Reproducible conditions for local-probe anodic oxidation experiments

Sample Protection

  • Shield sensitive samples from environmental influences
  • Crucial for 2D materials, organic compounds, and photovoltaic materials

Contamination Prevention

  • Maintain sample integrity during long-term studies
  • Ideal for ultra-clean or reactive sample analysis

Questions about environmental control?

Ask the application scientists behind our AFMs and modes — about your samples, probes, set-up or which mode fits your measurement. We answer every message personally.