Piezoresponse Force Microscopy for Advanced Research

Advance nanoscale ferroelectric and piezoelectric materials research with flexible AFM solutions from Molecular Imaging. Our modular platforms, application knowledge, and technical resources help research teams configure precise measurement workflows, optimize imaging conditions, and maintain dependable instrumentation. From initial system planning through training and ongoing support, we help laboratories pursue clearer, more repeatable PFM results.

Researcher operating an AFM for piezoresponse measurements

Our Piezoresponse Force Microscopy Services

Flexible instrumentation, training, and technical support for reliable nanoscale electromechanical research workflows.

Custom PFM Configuration

Configure a modular AFM platform around your research requirements, with compatible spectroscopy scripts, specialized modules, and complementary imaging capabilities for tailored nanoscale characterization workflows.

AFM Training

Build practical AFM knowledge through video tutorials covering imaging mechanisms, operating modes, calibration, controller setup, tip-sample interactions, resolution optimization, and troubleshooting in air or liquid.

AFM System Service

Keep AFM and STM instrumentation running through diagnosis, preventive maintenance, replacement parts, calibration, upgrades and remote technical troubleshooting via ZoomAFM.

Research-Ready Flexibility

Flexible Tools for Nanoscale Electromechanics

Piezoresponse Force Microscopy helps researchers examine local electromechanical behavior in piezoelectric and ferroelectric materials at the nanoscale. Molecular Imaging supports this work with modular AFM configurations that can be aligned with broader materials, electrochemical, or electrical measurement needs. Combine adaptable hardware, high-performance electronics, technical documentation, and knowledgeable support to develop a capable workflow for your laboratory’s evolving research questions.

AFM probe scanning a piezoelectric sample
The Molecular Imaging Difference

Why Choose Molecular Imaging?

A revived AFM legacy focused on flexible systems and meaningful research support.

Modularity

Build adaptable AFM workflows around changing materials, nanotechnology, and life-science research requirements.

Legacy Knowledge

Former Molecular Imaging professionals bring deep familiarity with proven AFM systems and applications.

Research Support

Documentation, tutorials, and remote support help teams troubleshoot efficiently and maintain momentum.

Technical Range

Configure complementary AFM, STM, electrochemical, and environmental capabilities within one flexible platform.

Meet the Molecular Imaging Team

Experienced AFM professionals supporting ambitious nanoscale research.

Portrait of Dr. Song Xu, Leader and Co-Founder of Molecular Imaging

Dr. Song Xu

Leader / Co-Founder (Revival Team)

Dr. Song Xu is a founding leader of the revived Molecular Imaging, having been instrumental in reuniting former employees after Keysight Technologies exited the AFM market in 2018. With deep institutional knowledge of Molecular Imaging's original technology and mission, he guides the company's strategic direction and technical development. Dr. Xu's expertise spans atomic force microscopy and nanoscale imaging systems, ensuring the company continues to deliver modular, precise, and user-friendly instrumentation. He is deeply committed to supporting researchers in nanotechnology, life sciences, and materials science, and works to ensure every customer receives reliable systems backed by strong technical support. Dr. Xu's leadership reflects a passion for continuing Molecular Imaging's legacy of innovation and collaboration for the global scientific research community.

Portrait of Steve Raba, Team Member at Molecular Imaging

Steve Raba

Team Member (Revival Team)

Steve Raba is a former Molecular Imaging professional who returned to help revive the company after Keysight Technologies' exit from the AFM market in 2018. His background spans application support, production, engineering, and R&D, giving him a well-rounded perspective on delivering high-quality AFM and STM instrumentation. Steve plays a key role in ensuring Molecular Imaging's systems meet the exacting standards required by researchers in nanotechnology, life sciences, and materials science. His hands-on experience with the company's original technology allows him to contribute valuable insight into product development and customer support. Steve is dedicated to helping the global research community achieve precise, reliable results through Molecular Imaging's advanced instrumentation and dependable service.

Portrait of John Alexander, Team Member at Molecular Imaging

John Alexander

Team Member (Revival Team)

John Alexander is a former Molecular Imaging professional who rejoined the team to help restore the company following Keysight Technologies' departure from the AFM market in 2018. His experience covers application support, production, engineering, and R&D, providing valuable expertise across the full lifecycle of AFM and STM system development. John's contributions help ensure Molecular Imaging's instruments remain modular, flexible, and dependable for researchers across nanotechnology, life sciences, and materials science fields. He is committed to maintaining the high standards of precision and usability that originally defined the Molecular Imaging brand. John's dedication to quality and customer satisfaction supports the company's mission of empowering the global research community with advanced nanoscale imaging solutions.

Portrait of Klaus Vicaro, Team Member at Molecular Imaging

Klaus Vicaro

Team Member (Revival Team)

Klaus Vicaro is a former Molecular Imaging professional who joined the effort to revive the company after Keysight Technologies exited the AFM market in 2018. He brings valuable experience in application support, production, engineering, and R&D to the organization's renewed mission. Klaus plays an important role in supporting the development and refinement of Molecular Imaging's AFM and STM product lines, helping ensure they meet the needs of researchers in nanotechnology, life sciences, and materials science. His technical background and familiarity with the company's original systems contribute to maintaining the precision and reliability customers expect. Klaus is committed to helping Molecular Imaging continue its legacy of innovation and dependable service for the global scientific community.

Portrait of John Ris, Team Member at Molecular Imaging

John Ris

Team Member (Revival Team)

John Ris is a former Molecular Imaging professional who joined the revival team following Keysight Technologies' 2018 exit from the AFM market. His expertise spans application support, production, engineering, and R&D, contributing to the company's ability to deliver advanced, user-friendly AFM and STM systems. John plays a vital role in supporting the technical and operational aspects of Molecular Imaging's product offerings, helping serve researchers across nanotechnology, life sciences, and materials science. His familiarity with the company's original technology and commitment to quality help maintain the precision and reliability that define Molecular Imaging's instruments. John remains dedicated to advancing the company's mission of innovation and collaboration for the global research community.

Portrait of Dr. Stuart Lindsay, Academic Advisor at Molecular Imaging

Dr. Stuart Lindsay

Academic Advisor

Dr. Stuart Lindsay serves as academic advisor to Molecular Imaging, bringing extensive scientific expertise and vision to the company's renewed mission. His guidance supports the organization's commitment to advancing atomic force microscopy technology for researchers in nanotechnology, life sciences, and materials science. Dr. Lindsay's academic background provides valuable insight that helps shape Molecular Imaging's product development and research applications, ensuring the company remains at the forefront of nanoscale imaging innovation. His involvement reflects the collaborative spirit that has defined Molecular Imaging since its original founding. Dr. Lindsay is dedicated to helping the company deliver unparalleled precision, versatility, and control in AFM/SPM systems, supporting the global research community in their pursuit of scientific discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is piezo force microscopy?

Piezo force microscopy, more commonly called piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM), is an atomic force microscopy technique used to study local piezoelectric and ferroelectric behavior. A conductive probe applies an electrical signal to the sample while the AFM detects the resulting mechanical response. The measurement can reveal domain structure, response amplitude, phase contrast, and switching-related behavior at nanoscale resolution.

What is the PFM technique?

What materials can be studied with PFM?

What equipment is needed for PFM measurements?

How is PFM different from standard AFM imaging?

Can PFM be combined with other AFM techniques?

How can researchers improve PFM data quality?

Does Molecular Imaging provide support for existing AFM systems?

Have a PFM Research Question?

Speak with our team about instrumentation, configuration, training, or service needs.

Who Stands Behind the Work

Technical Background

Icon marking the company's reorganization by former Molecular Imaging employees

Rebuilt by Former Molecular Imaging Employees

Reorganized by former Molecular Imaging staff after Keysight Technologies withdrew from the AFM market in 2018.

Icon marking supported Molecular Imaging, Agilent and Keysight-branded AFM products

Molecular Imaging, Agilent and Keysight-Branded AFM

Specialized repair capabilities on most Molecular Imaging, Agilent and Keysight-branded AFM products.

Icon marking advisory involvement from co-founder Dr. Stuart Lindsay

Co-Founder and Academic Advisor Dr. Stuart Lindsay

Dr. Stuart Lindsay co-founded Molecular Imaging in the mid-1990s and advises the team today.

Plan Your Next PFM Workflow

Tell us about your sample, measurement goals, and current instrumentation so our team can help identify relevant configuration, training, or service options.

Tell Us About Your Measurement

For immediate assistance, feel free to give us a direct call at 1-888-644-0389. You can also send us a quick email at songxu@nanocuetech.com.