Combined Scanning Force - Super Resolution Fluorescence Microscope (AFM-SRFM)

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Investigation and development of soft matter is an important field of research at RWTH Aachen University. There is a special focus on complex systems that reveal characteristic length scales < 1µm where these structural properties concern the morphology as well as chemical functionality. A particular feature of these soft materials is their ability to adapt to their environments as. e.g. at interfaces. We apply for a microscope that combines scanning force microscopy with fluorescence microscopy. Furthermore, it combines super resolution microscopy as well as confocal microscopy with temporal and spectral resolution. This microscope will allow studying adaptive soft matter systems with complex structure at interfaces. A special focus will be on systems that consist of different components as, e.g. different microgels. The unique combination of techniques will enable in situ investigation of the influence of various stimuli on the morphology, viscoelastic properties as well as on the chemical functionality of soft matter both parallel and perpendicular to an interface. Functional microgels reveal very special properties it will become possible investigating the influence of “softness“ of nanometer-sized objects on their individuell deformation, interpenetration and how that influences the entire layer. Furthermore, it will be possible to develop functional coatings with applications, e.g., as sensors or in catalysis. The microscope will boost research within a CRC, Faculty 1 and the profile area Molecular Science & Engineering. It will significantly extend the current equipment at RWTH and neighbouring institutes.