Atomic-scale distribution of water molecules at the mica-water interface visualized by three-dimensional scanning force microscopy

We have developed a method referred to as three-dimensional scanning force microscopy (3D-SFM) which enables us to visualize water distribution at a solid-liquid interface with an atomic-scale resolution in less than 1 min. The 3D-SFM image obtained at a mica-water interface visualizes 3D distributi...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inPhysical review letters Vol. 104; no. 1; p. 016101
Main Authors Fukuma, Takeshi, Ueda, Yasumasa, Yoshioka, Shunsuke, Asakawa, Hitoshi
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published United States 08.01.2010
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Summary:We have developed a method referred to as three-dimensional scanning force microscopy (3D-SFM) which enables us to visualize water distribution at a solid-liquid interface with an atomic-scale resolution in less than 1 min. The 3D-SFM image obtained at a mica-water interface visualizes 3D distributions of adsorbed water molecules above the center of hexagonal cavities and the laterally distributed hydration layer. The atomically resolved 3D-SFM image showing mirror symmetry suggests the existence of surface relaxation of the cleaved mica surface next to the aqueous environment.
ISSN:1079-7114
DOI:10.1103/physrevlett.104.016101