It is a microscope-compatible nanoindentation instrument to explore the
micro-mechanical properties of various biomaterials, from single cells to complex 3D cellular systems, including organoids and spheroids. It can measure the forces of cells or other microstructures while imaging with an inverted microscope.
- Measure mechanical properties and forces of biomaterials: single cells; cell monolayers; spheroids, organoids, oocytes; tissue slices and cryosections; embryos, zebrafish; cells on micropatterns or pillars; microparticles and microgels; hydrogels and scaffolds; 3D printed microstructures.
- Fast and automated surface detection with 12 mm range Z-stage and high-precision indentation up to 100 μm.
- High-precision long-range piezo for both surface and bulk deformations.
- Measurements can be performed while the sample is immersed in liquids and in other complex environments.
- Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) for viscoelastic characterization (storage and loss moduli) of biomaterials similar to rheometry, with frequency range 0.01 – 20 Hz.
- Adhesion mode for sticky samples.
- Mechanical maps and topography.
- Young’s modulus: 5 Pa – 1 GPa.
- Stiffness range: 0.02 – 200 N/m.
- Force range: 200 pN – 4 mN.
📍 The “AFM-based nanoindentation” station is located at the NanoInnovation Laboratory of Elettra Sincrotrone Trieste in Area Science Park.
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