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In recent years, the atomic force microscope has proven to be a powerful tool for studying biological systems, mainly for its capability to measure in liquids with nanoscale resolution. Measuring tissues, cells or proteins in their physiological conditions gives us access to valuable information about their real ‘in vivo’ structure, dynamics and functionality which could then fuel disruptive medical and biological applications. The main problem faced by the atomic force microscope when working in liquid environments is the difficulty to generate clear cantilever resonance spectra, essential for stable operation and for high resolution imaging. Photothermal actuation overcomes this problem, as it generates clear resonance spectra free from spurious peaks. However, relatively high laser powers are required to achieve the desired cantilever oscillation amplitude, which could potentially damage biological samples. In this study, we demonstrate that the photothermal excitation efficiency can be enhanced by coating the cantilever with a thin amorphous carbon layer to increase the heat absorption from the laser, reducing the required excitation laser power and minimizing the damage to biological samples.

Photothermal excitation efficiency enhancement of cantilevers by electron beam deposition of amorphous carbon thin films