Ilse Katz Institute for Nanoscale Science & Technology - Scanning Probe Microscope (Room 004)

SPM overview

Asylum Research (Oxford Instruments) Scanning Probe Microscopes:

MFP-3D-Bio including ORCA-Nanoindenter Head

Cypher-ES

Scanning Probe Microscopes (SPM) (also known as Atomic Force Microscopes (AFM)) are very versatile instruments which can probe various surface properties and molecular properties with very high resolution.

For an overview you may visit: www.asylumresearch.com

For detailed information, please visit us, or send us your ideas and questions by e-mail.

Interesting to know:

The MFP-3D-Bio and the Cypher-ES are dedicated to research (as opposed to metrology or fabrication). They have a particular wide range of well-designed, useful accessories. The software can be modified by the user, in order to accomplish particular tasks. Unlike the majority of SPMs, which are built essentially as a “black box", the instruments of Asylum Research are of utmost flexibility.

SPM specification

It is always recommended that you discuss your request with the system operator.

MFP-3D-Bio BioBrochureLR.pdf

The MFP-3D-Bio comes with many accessories which are useful for biological applications. It is combined with an Inverted Optical Microscope. It has a wide range of mechanical and electrical characterization modes, temperature and humidity control, and more.

Cypher-ES Cypher-Brochure.pdf (Environmental control) ESBrochureLR.pdf

The Cypher-ES (Environmental Scanner) allows for temperature control, working in inert atmosphere, working with highly volatile liquids, and work under flow.

The Cypher-ES has a particular low noise level. It can work with ultra-small cantilevers.

ORCA Nanoindenter NanoIndentDSHR.pdf

The mechanical testing modes of the MFP are complemented with a Nanoindenter. The Nanoindenter can use conductive probes.

All instruments are equipped with LVDT position sensors. This enables precise positioning, accurate readings, and makes piezo re-calibration unnecessary.

Sample size is limited, in particular for the Cypher-ES. (Please inquire.)

All instruments use “bottom scanner", so the samples must typically be glued to a holder. (Please inquire.)

SPM application examples

This site is under construction.

Please contact us. We can send you application notes.

Many examples can be found on this page:
Homepage of Asylum Reasearch

We have a large number of accessories. Please inquire.

SPM independent users

Independent User Policy:

There are no pre-studies or tests. You start under supervisison and gradually work more independent.

You will be supplied with documents (manuals and application notes) according to your field of interest.

We are very positive about independent users, but one has to keep in mind that the SPM is more complex than many other instruments, and more fragile, and it takes an effort to get into it.

SPM contact person

Contact Person:

Scanning Probe Microscope

Jürgen Jopp
Ilse Katz Institute for Nanoscale Science and Technology
Building 51, Room 004
Ben-Gurion University of the Negev
Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
Tel : 972-8-6428657
972-8-6477798
Fax : 972-8-6428638
Email: jjurgen@bgu.ac.il