1. What types of samples can be analyzed using AFM?
AFM can scan a wide range of materials including soft biological tissues, polymers, nanoparticles, hydrogels, and thin films, in both air and liquid environments.

2. How should I prepare my sample for AFM imaging?
Samples should be clean, flat, and securely mounted on a suitable substrate (like mica, glass, or silicon). AFM technicians may provide specific guidelines based on your sample type.

3. What is the maximum sample size or thickness AFM can handle?
AFM typically accommodates samples up to a few centimeters in width and a few millimeters in thickness. Ask the technician about your specific sample dimensions.

4. Can AFM be used to scan live cells or wet samples?
Yes, with appropriate fluid cells and cantilevers, AFM can image live cells and hydrated samples in liquid environments.

5. What kind of data do I receive after scanning?
You will receive topography images, phase contrast, force curves, and optionally 3D reconstructions, depending on the scan mode used.

6. How long does it take to scan a sample?
Scan time varies with resolution and area size. A typical high-resolution scan might take 10–60 minutes per area.

7. Can AFM provide quantitative measurements like roughness or feature height?
Yes, AFM provides highly accurate measurements of surface roughness, step height, feature width, and more.

8. What are the common imaging modes available?
Common modes include contact mode, tapping mode, non-contact mode, force spectroscopy, and phase imaging.

9. Is there a risk of damaging my sample?
AFM is generally gentle, but very soft or fragile samples may deform under the probe. The technician adjusts scan parameters to minimize this risk.

10. Who owns the data and images produced?
All scanned images and data belong to the user/investigator. The facility may request acknowledgment in publications if their resources were used.