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Atomic force microscopy methodology and AFMech Suite software for nanomechanics on heterogeneous soft materials

Author

Listed:
  • Massimiliano Galluzzi

    (Shenzhen University
    Shenzhen University Town)

  • Guanlin Tang

    (Shenzhen University)

  • Chandra S. Biswas

    (Shenzhen University)

  • Jinlai Zhao

    (Shenzhen University
    Macau University of Science and Technology)

  • Shiguo Chen

    (Shenzhen University)

  • Florian J. Stadler

    (Shenzhen University)

Abstract

Atomic force microscopy has proven to be a valuable technique to characterize the mechanical and morphological properties of heterogeneous soft materials such as biological specimens in liquid environment. Here we propose a 3-step method in order to investigate biological specimens where heterogeneity hinder a quantitative characterization: (1) precise AFM calibration, (2) nano-indentation in force volume mode, (3) array of finite element simulations built from AFM indentation events. We combine simulations to determine internal geometries, multi-layer material properties, and interfacial friction. In order to easily perform this analysis from raw AFM data to simulation comparison, we propose a standalone software, AFMech Suite comprising five interacting interfaces for simultaneous calibration, morphology, adhesion, mechanical, and simulation analysis. We test the methodology on soft hydrogels with hard spherical inclusions, as a soft-matter model system. Finally, we apply the method on E. coli bacteria supported on soft/hard hydrogels to prove usefulness in biological field.

Suggested Citation

  • Massimiliano Galluzzi & Guanlin Tang & Chandra S. Biswas & Jinlai Zhao & Shiguo Chen & Florian J. Stadler, 2018. "Atomic force microscopy methodology and AFMech Suite software for nanomechanics on heterogeneous soft materials," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 9(1), pages 1-10, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:9:y:2018:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-018-05902-1
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-05902-1
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