Invitation

Fountain Pen Probe Beta Test

Fountain Pen Technology
We are introducing the Fountain pen. A ‘standard’ silicon nitride AFM probe, with the unique feature that it has a single or dual integrated micro-fluidic channel to supply fluid to the tip. A new probe developed at the TST group at the MESA+ Institute for Nano-technology. It can be used to image sample surfaces and simultaneously change the tip/sample interaction by introducing a fluid. Thus one could change the physical or chemical state of the tip or sample, induce reactions, locally deposit or stimulate a bio-chemical sample.

New Applications
The Fountain Pen is potentially useful for many different applications. Lithography, local etching, and electro-chemical deposition are among the applications already successfully demonstrated. But we are convinced that many more applications are possible. To get a better insight in possible new applications, we are setting up a beta-test. The test will help us to further perfect the probe design, map the application areas and determine on what scale the Fountain Pen should be introduced to the market.

Beta Test participation
We are inviting you to be among the first to use the Fountain Pen for your (research) application. You can now register to participate.

Conditions of Participation
Most important condition is to propose a new application for the Fountain Pen probe. Second you should be willing and open to communicate about the test results with both SmartTip and the TST group at the MESA+ Institute. Third we require participants to be committed to the test. That is the reason why we charge you a fee for the Fountain Pens supplied.

Technical details of the Fountain Pen
Two versions of the Fountain Pen are available:
• A rectangular cantilever (0.04 N/m spring constant) with a single micro-fluidic channel and single outlet at the tip.
• A triangular cantilever (0,09 N/m spring constant) with dual micro-fluidic channel and single outlet at the tip. More technical details can be obtained on request.

Register now !
We are planning to assign beta testers and supply them with fountain pens early September. Selection of testers is based on proposed application areas. In order to be considered as beta test partner, please fill out the on-line registration and we will get in touch with you to further discuss your application and participation.