Acquisition of an Interfacial Force Microscope (IFM) for Nano-structured Materials, Ultra-precision Manufacturing, and Nanomechanics Research

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This MRI grant supports the acquisition of an Interfacial Force Microscope (IFM). The IFM uses self-balanced force sensor so that force can be measured precisely as its measurement is independent of displacement measurement. The IFM is capable of probing the thermo-mechanical behavior of such materials as polymers and nano-structured materials from atomistic to micrometer scales with a force range between 1 nN and 500microN over a range of temperatures. The new equipment will allow the characterization of the Young's relaxation modulus in the matrix near fibers or nanoparticles and the nano-necks in nanofoams, and interfacial strength at the interface of nanoparticle/matrix and the bonding strength of adhesives at different temperatures. The equipment will also enable investigation of the short-range forces in crystal imperfections, nanosliding and nanotribology, nanoscale crack initiation and propagation, and cohesive traction separation law. The acquisition of the IFM will enhance the research competitiveness of the State of Oklahoma. The IFM will be used in research studies and in laboratory demonstration for both undergraduate and graduate students. The instrument will be included as part of the research facilities for use by researchers and graduate students on the Oklahoma NanoNet.