AFM Modes

Force Pulling

Quantitative measurements of pull-off forces using force spectra

Force pulling is a point spectroscopy technique where force spectra are collected to extract quantitative nanomechanical property information related to adhesion, molecular unfolding, and single molecule (un)binding events.

In force pulling, a pre‑calibrated AFM probe is ramped in the Z direction, bringing it into and out of contact with a sample surface. The retract portion of the resulting force‑distance curve is analyzed to obtain quantitative measurements of the forces acting on the probe as it is pulled away from the surface. These forces can provide insights into structural and mechanical properties, such as molecular unfolding and adhesion. AFM probes can also be functionalized with small ligands to study (un)binding forces with specific molecules on a sample surface. In general, the spring constant of the AFM probe used should be closely matched to the type of interaction forces that are being measured.

Force pulling can be applied to a wide range of materials. It is complementary to other mechanical property AFM modes, such as FV and PeakForce QNM that conduct full material property mapping over the entire surface area. Force pulling is often preferred over these other modes in cases where isolated, individual force measurements, or a small array of force curves, are sufficient for studying specific location(s) on a sample surface.

(A)Titin force‑separation curves, (B)titin force‑time script, (C) live fibroblast cell force‑time script, (D)and rubber polymer blend adhesion curves.
Input value is invalid.

Get instant access to the full-length AFM modes handbook.

The Definitive AFM Modes Handbook contains everything you need to understand, select, and apply AFM techniques in materials research, including:

  • An easy-to-use framework for understanding the seven categories of AFM modes, their capabilities, and their core uses
  • Detailed descriptions of 50+ modes and variants (including 300+ data images)
  • Summary information about what each mode is, how it works, and when to use it
  • Our experts' top probe recommendations for each mode
Please enter your first name
Please enter your last name
Please enter your e-mail address
Please enter a valid phone number
Please enter your Company/Institution
What best describes your current interest?
Please accept the Terms and Conditions

             Privacy Notice   Terms of Use


  * Please fill out the required fields.

Your download is now available.


Note:
If you exit this page, you may not be able to reopen this download window without re-submitting the form.