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Atomic Force Microscopy Studies in Various Environments

The publication focuses on the application of Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) for the imaging and characterization of organic and polymer samples under various environmental conditions, such as humid air and solvent vapors (e.g., methanol, toluene, benzene, tetrahydrofuran). Utilizing the Agilent 5500 microscope, the study reveals how environmental factors induce structural transformations and swelling in samples, enhancing nanoscale characterization. Key findings include the reversible structural reorganization of block copolymers, humidity-driven molecular conformational changes, and the formation of self-assembled structures influenced by solvent vapors. The publication emphasizes the versatility of AFM in diverse environments and its ability to provide insights into molecular interactions, mechanical properties, and dielectric behaviors. These findings showcase AFM’s potential for advancing materials science by enabling detailed, environmentally controlled studies of surface phenomena and nanoscale properties.

Studies of Polyvinyl Alcohol under Temperature and Humidity Control

This publication explores the use of Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) for examining the temperature- and humidity-dependent properties of polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), a hydrophilic polymer. AFM’s non-invasive imaging capabilities allow for detailed investigation of polymer surfaces, including friction, adhesion, and viscoelasticity, without requiring preparative processes like coating or vacuum placement. The study demonstrates how temperature and humidity influence PVOH’s morphology and material properties, highlighting the role of crystallization and polymer chain mobility.

Experiments under controlled environmental conditions revealed that increased temperature above PVOH’s glass transition temperature facilitates chain mobility and crystallization, leading to more ordered structures. Similarly, high humidity induces swelling due to water absorption, enabling structural reorganization and reducing the glass transition temperature. Upon drying, the polymer retains enhanced crystallinity. These findings underscore the significance of in situ environmental control in AFM studies for understanding polymer morphology, kinetics, and the effects of environmental factors at the nanoscale.