Nanoscale chemical identity
point spectroscopy
Material Analysis · Microscopy & Imaging
AFM-Infrared Spectroscopy (AFM-IR)
Characterise nanoscale chemical identity, topography and local mechanical response, and chemical-domain size and distribution using a scope agreed around your sample and decision.
- Price
- from£540 per sample, excl. VAT
- Turnaround
- 6 working days Preparation and scope dependent
- Available platforms
- Bruker Dimension IconIROxford Instruments MFP-3D Infinity
- Typical outputs
- AFM topographyPoint nano-IR spectraChemical-intensity maps and correlation overlaysMethod-specific images
Why this test
What AFM-IR can help you understand
AFM-Infrared Spectroscopy is selected when the project needs defensible information on nanoscale chemical identity, topography and local mechanical response, or chemical-domain size and distribution. AFM-IR detects…
Topography and local mechanical response
chemical imaging
Chemical-domain size and distribution
correlative nanomechanical or electrical mapping
Choose the scope
Start from the question, not the instrument
The measurement mode, preparation route and reporting depth depend on what you need to learn from the sample.
Point spectroscopy
nanoscale chemical identity
- Best used when
- nanoscale chemical identity
- Typical result
- AFM topography
- Preparation note
- Exact mass and any drying or dispersion step are confirmed after technical review.
Chemical imaging
topography and local mechanical response
- Best used when
- topography and local mechanical response
- Typical result
- Point nano-IR spectra
- Preparation note
- State the substrate, nominal thickness and whether sectioning or mounting is permitted.
Correlative nanomechanical or electrical mapping
chemical-domain size and distribution
- Best used when
- chemical-domain size and distribution
- Typical result
- Chemical-intensity maps and correlation overlays
- Preparation note
- Confirm the applicable standard, dimensions, loading direction and number of replicates.
Common outputs
A result package matched to the decision you need to make
Fields, measurement conditions, processing and file formats are confirmed before work begins.
AFM topography reported with the agreed units, sample reference and measurement conditions.
Point nano-IR spectra supplied in a labelled format suitable for direct sample or condition comparison.
Chemical-intensity maps and correlation overlays provided with the processing basis and quality checks agreed during technical review.
Method-specific images included when selected in the confirmed reporting scope.
Sample requirements
What to send
Provide representative, clearly labelled samples and identify the region, feature or comparison that matters.
| Suitable sample or input | Submission requirement | Planning note |
|---|---|---|
| Powder / particles | Provide a dry, homogeneous and clearly labelled sample in a sealed container. | Exact mass and any drying or dispersion step are confirmed after technical review. |
| Film / coating | Provide the coated substrate or a flat film with the test surface and coating side clearly marked. | State the substrate, nominal thickness and whether sectioning or mounting is permitted. |
| Test coupon / specimen | Provide labelled specimens prepared to the agreed geometry, orientation and surface condition. | Confirm the applicable standard, dimensions, loading direction and number of replicates. |
| Solid / component | Provide a clean, stable and clearly labelled specimen with the target face or region identified. | Confirm dimensions, cutting permission and whether the original geometry must be preserved. |
Region of interest: include a marked image, sketch or reference when the target feature is localised.
Handling: declare hazardous, magnetic, volatile, moisture-sensitive, beam-sensitive or temperature-controlled material before dispatch.
Questions and answers
Common planning decisions
Short answers to issues that can change preparation, scope or interpretation.
What should I send for AFM-Infrared Spectroscopy?
Provide powder / particles, film / coating, test coupon / specimen, solid / component as applicable. Exact quantity, dimensions and preparation are confirmed during technical review.
Which analysis option should I choose?
Choose the mode around the decision you need to make. For nanoscale chemical identity, start with point spectroscopy; add chemical imaging when comparison or quantification is required.
How long will the test take?
Typical turnaround is 6 working days after sample acceptance and method confirmation.
What can limit the result?
Strong roughness, poor thermal contact, or weak absorption can reduce signal. Results sample a shallow local area and require representative site selection.
Configure the service
Send the information needed to scope AFM-IR correctly
- Sample form, material, dimensions and quantity
- Feature or decision the result must address
- Marked region of interest where relevant
- Required comparison, output and reporting depth