DC thermal microscopy: study of the thermal exchange between a probe and a sample

Abstract

The Scanning Thermal Microscopic (SThM) probe, a thin Pt resistance wire, is used in the constant force mode of an Atomic Force Microscope (AFM). Thermal signal-distance curves for differing degrees of relative humidity and different surrounding gases demonstrate how heat is transferred from the heated probe to the sample. It is known that water affects atomic force microscopy and thermal measurements; we report here on the variation of the water interaction on the thermal coupling versus the probe temperature. Measurements were taken for several solid materials and show that the predominant heat transfer mechanisms taking part in thermal coupling are dependent on the thermal conductivity of the sample. The results have important implications for any quantitative interpretation of thermal images made in air.

Identification of thermophysical characteristics of materials using heating probe

“…A measurement method of local thermal conductivity is the SThM (Scanning Thermal Microscopy). This method is presented using a calibration procedure [7], [8]. It consists of exciting the central point of a sample with a thin platinum wire maintained at a constant temperature with the help of a Wheatstone bridge.…”

Role of Temperature and Carbon Nanotube Reinforcement on Epoxy based Nanocomposites

“…The discoveries of carbon nanotubes (CNT) have initiated researches in many different areas; one of the most intriguing applications of CNT is the polymer/CNT nanocomposites [1][2][3][4][5]. The high mechanical, electrical and thermal property of CNTs make them ideal candidate as fillers in lightweight polymer composite [6].…”

Structure and Properties of Carbon Nanotube Reinforced Nanocomposites

“…Based on its unique properties, many applications of CNT have been proposed including quantum wires, tiny electronic devices [4,5], heterojunction devices, electron emitters [6], nanotube tips for scanning probe microscope [7], etc. One of the most intriguing applications of CNT is the polymer/CNT nanocomposites [8][9][10][11][12][13]. The superb mechanic property of CNT makes them ideal candidate as fillers in high strength, lightweight polymer composite.…”

“…The superb mechanic property of CNT makes them ideal candidate as fillers in high strength, lightweight polymer composite. Polymers such as epoxy [10], thermoplastics [11], gels [12], as well as Poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) [13] have been used as the matrix. However, the developments in polymer/CNT nanocomposite has been limited by the problems with the dispersion of the fillers as well as the load transfer across the CNT polymer interface due to the atomically smooth CNT surface.…”