Near-field optical microscopy at the liquid/air interface

We have used an uncoated, tapered single-mode optical fiber to measure evanescent decay lengths above the liquid/air interface for the liquids glycerol, mineral oil, and water. The ability to detect evanescent fields from above demonstrates that near-field microscopy of the liquid/air interface is p...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Ultramicroscopy 1995-02, Vol.57 (2), p.219-222
Main Authors: Seaver, Mark, Duncan, M.D., Frost, A.E.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Exact sciences and technology
Instruments, apparatus, components and techniques common to several branches of physics and astronomy
Near-field scanning optical microscopes
Physics
Scanning probe microscopes, components and techniques
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Summary:We have used an uncoated, tapered single-mode optical fiber to measure evanescent decay lengths above the liquid/air interface for the liquids glycerol, mineral oil, and water. The ability to detect evanescent fields from above demonstrates that near-field microscopy of the liquid/air interface is possible. The evanescent decays are compared with predicted decay lengths and with the decay above a quartz prism. Gravity waves are seen in all three liquids, with wave amplitudes inversely proportional to the viscosity of the liquid. These waves interfere with but do not preclude near-field approach to the interface. We also describe the simultaneous measurements of evanescent decay and shear force strength as the probe approaches a quartz prism.
ISSN:0304-3991
1879-2723
DOI:10.1016/0304-3991(94)00139-E