Scanning Probe Microscopy of Polymers

The highlights of this book include an examination of the use of scanning probe microscopy to characterize a variety of polymeric materials, from polymer single crystals and molecular films to composites and biopolymers. The volume provides a synthesis of critical overviews and important new developments, including applications in atomic resolution, chemical force microscopy, and recognition/nanolithography. It includes a review of basic principles and operational modes, terminology, trends, and a discussion of key industrial applications, such as polymer fibers, polymer composites, and filled polymers. It also includes chapters on biopolymers and living cells and on methods for probing micromechanical properties.

Buddy D. Ratner, University of Washington. Vladimir V. Tsukruk, Western Michigan University.