Operation procedures of atomic force microscopy for food and biological samples

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) has mainly three types of functions, i.e., imaging, force measurement, and nanomanipulation. The purpose of this chapter is to introduce the basic operation procedures of AFM. First, AFM requirements for food samples are introduced. This step is important to ensure that the correct AFM is chosen according to different analytical requirements. Second, the basic choice of substrates, sample preparation, and cantilever selection are introduced. These steps are pivotal to make sure that AFM users perform the correct preparatory work prior to AFM procedures. Third, the common procedures of imaging, force measurement, and nanomanipulation by AFM are described. Finally, data optimization (real-time and offline) and data analysis (typical image artifacts and image analysis) are summarized. These optimization and analysis steps are essential to obtain and analyze correct results. This chapter provides basic operational procedures for AFM. Especially, this work also provides some key options and considerations to take into account during the procedures.