Then, select the desired indentation parameters and the indentation is executed. Now, the cantilever oscillation is turned off and the piezo-scanner lowers the diamond tip toward the surface where the tip is forced into the surface until the cantilever deflects a specified amount. The tip is then retracted until it reaches the initial position above the surface. While indenting, a force-displacement curve is recorded utilizing the DC displacment of the cantilever and the extension of the piezo scanner. You can make as many indentations as you wish using various forces, rates, etc.
Scratching is done in a similar manner.
First, you must engage on the surface with an indentation cantilever and image the surface to locate the desired position for the scratch. Next, select Scratch Mode where, once again, the lateral scanning halts and the tip is lifted slightly off the surface. You then set the scratch parameters, such as force, rate, length and direction, and the scratch is executed. During the scratch, the cantilever oscillation is turned off, the tip is forced into the surface until the specified cantilever deflection is reached, and the probe is then moved laterally using your preset length, rate and direction. Multiple scratches can be made using various forces, lengths, rates, and directions.