Scanning Probe Nanotomograph: Features of Engineering Solutions for Low-Temperature Analysis of Biomedical Materials

Abstract

The design of a nanotechnological complex for scanning probe nanotomography based on a combination of cryoultramicrotomy and scanning probe microscopy (SPM) is presented. Features of the structural and technical solutions of the SPM module that are required for effective functioning in the cryochamber at low temperatures and coordinated operation with the ultramicrotome for three-dimensional tomographic reconstructions of the samples are reviewed. The complex reveals unique information about the native micro- and nanostructure of the objects. The article discusses opportunities and use of the complex for biomedical research.