The SEM images shown below illustrate the geometry of AFM cantilevers and tips.
Cantilevers are available with pyramidal tips or conical tips.
Cantilevers for AFM work are nanofabricated from silicon. The cantilevers shown at right are still attached to the original chip. These cantilevers are fabricated with pyramidal tips of silicon nitride. Click on an image to view it at higher resolution. Pyramidal tips made from silicon nitride are the most durable variety.