Microfabrication and parallel operation of 5×5 2D AFM cantilever arrays for data storage and imaging

Abstract

In this paper we report on the microfabrication of a 5×5 2D cantilever array and its successful application to parallel imaging. The 5×5 array with integrated force sensing and tip heating has been fabricated using a recently developed, all dry, silicon backside etching process. The levers on the array have integrated piezoresistive sensing. The array is scanned in x and y directions using voice coil actuators. Three additional voice coil z actuators are used in a triangular arrangement to approach the sample with the array chip. The system is thus leveled in the same way as an air table. We report details of the array fabrication, the x-y scanning and approach system as well as images taken with the system.