Note: advancement in tip etching for preparation of tunable size scanning tunneling microscopy tips

The two aspects of a scanning tunneling microscopy tip, the macroscopic profile and the nanoscale apex, can be tailored by controlling the tension during electrochemical etching and the solution-electrode contact area via acetone vapor. The apex diameter is shown to be proportional to the square roo...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Review of scientific instruments 2015-02, Vol.86 (2), p.026104-026104
Main Authors: Corbett, J P, Pandya, S G, Mandru, A-O, Pak, J, Kordesch, M E, Smith, A R
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Acetone
Control stability
Electrochemical etching
Microscopy
Scanning tunneling microscopy
Scientific apparatus & instruments
Tips
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Summary:The two aspects of a scanning tunneling microscopy tip, the macroscopic profile and the nanoscale apex, can be tailored by controlling the tension during electrochemical etching and the solution-electrode contact area via acetone vapor. The apex diameter is shown to be proportional to the square root of the tension, and is demonstrated over apex diameters of 150-500 nm. The apex was found to be created in four distinct shapes where a secondary etching can reshape the tip into a single geometry. Improvement in tip height and stability of the profile are demonstrated versus a non-acetone fabrication control.
ISSN:0034-6748
1089-7623
DOI:10.1063/1.4907706