Magnetic Force Microscope
About
The Magnetic force microscope (MFM) uses a very fine magnetically-coated tip mounted on a cantilever to measure magnetic force as it is scanned across the surface of a sample. The resolution is high enough to allow imaging the magnetization structure inside domain walls.
A more detailed description can be found in IRM Quarterly, v.23, n.2, Summer 2013.
Specifications:
- Temperature range: room temperature to ~350 C
- Applied Field: N/A
- Resolution: ~50 nm to 100 um
- Measurement time: several hours.
Samples for the MFM:
Sample preparation for the MFM is a very tricky business. Not only is it vital to get a smooth (and relatively unstressed) surface, it is also vital to have the scanned surface oriented parallel to the crystallographic easy (magnetization) direction of the grain. If this is not done, strange domain patterns can be observed as a result of the sample plane cutting domains at an angle. Please contact the IRM ([email protected]) to ask about sample preparation and applicability to your research,
See also
Quantum Diamond Microscope
By exploiting the quantum properties of nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond, QDM allows non-destructive, high-resolution imaging of magnetic fields at the micrometer scale. This technique can resolve weak, localized remanent magnetizations carried by individual mineral grains, providing direct insights into paleomagnetic records, rock magnetic processes, and the preservation of geomagnetic signals in complex natural samples.
In comparison to the MFM, QDM can provide 2 x 2 mm maps of magnetic flux rather than imaging of single grains. It is a much quicker way of mapping a sample area for magnetic sources.
