Normal and torsional spring constants of atomic force microscope cantilevers

Abstract

The methods used to measure the normal spring constants of atomic force microscope cantilevers were described. The added mass method involves measuring the change in resonant frequency of the fundamental mode of vibration upon the addition of known masses to the free end of the cantilever. The unloaded resonance technique requires measurement of the unloaded resonant frequency and quality factor of the fundamental mode of vibration. The validity and applicability of the unloaded resonance method was also investigated.