Nanomaterials (Jan 2024)

Damage Behavior with Atomic Force Microscopy on Anti-Bacterial Nanostructure Arrays

  • Jonathan Wood,
  • Richard Bright,
  • Dennis Palms,
  • Dan Barker,
  • Krasimir Vasilev

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14030253
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 14, no. 3
p. 253

Abstract

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The atomic force microscope is a versatile tool for assessing the topography, friction, and roughness of a broad spectrum of surfaces, encompassing anti-bacterial nanostructure arrays. Measuring and comparing all these values with one instrument allows clear comparisons of many nanomechanical reactions and anomalies. Increasing nano-Newton-level forces through the cantilever tip allows for the testing and measuring of failure points, damage behavior, and functionality under unfavorable conditions. Subjecting a grade 5 titanium alloy to hydrothermally etched nanostructures while applying elevated cantilever tip forces resulted in the observation of irreversible damage through atomic force microscopy. Despite the damage, a rough and non-uniform morphology remained that may still allow it to perform in its intended application as an anti-bacterial implant surface. Utilizing an atomic force microscope enables the evaluation of these surfaces before their biomedical application.

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