Effects of experimental parameters on the work function measurement: A Kelvin force microscopy study

Abstract

The analysis of the Work Function measurements, of different materials, using the Kelvin Force Microscopy technique (KFM) is not trivial. Various artifacts can alter the interpretation of KFM results. Thus a good understanding of experimental conditions effects, involved in a measurement procedure, is essential to provide a reliable interpretation and avoid false conclusions. In this paper, we present an experimental study of the most relevant parameters influencing KFM measurements performed alternatively under air and nitrogen conditions. We investigate the effects of the tip-sample separation, the tip shape, the relative humidity and the modulation signal applied to the probe. We provide arguments and discussions in order to explain experimentally observed behaviors. We also propose experimental settings and protocols by providing the most convenient conditions for reliable KFM results. © 2009 American Institute of Physics.