This work describes how a frequency
modulation atomic force microscope
(AFM) using a hanging fiber force probe made from a quartz tuning
fork provides local measurements on liquid–liquid interfaces.
After detailing the manufacture and calibration of the force probe,
we provide evidence that this AFM is suitable for quantitative measurements
at the interface between two liquids. The repeatability of the measurements
allows a poly-dimethylsiloxane–water moving interface to be
monitored over several hours. The evaporation of a water droplet immersed
in poly-dimethylsiloxane is observed, and its interfacial tension
evolution over time is measured. Deformation of the interface is also
observed. These capabilities, and preliminary results for the interface
between two immiscible liquids, pave the way for interface manipulation
and study of complex fluid–fluid interfaces.
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