Use of Scanning Probe Microscopy in surface finishing and engineering

Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM) encompasses a range of probe techniques such as Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) which have many potential applications in the fields of metal finishing and surface engineering. The power of the technique lies in its ability to image deposition and corrosion processes at extremely high resolution, even down to the atomic scale when required. At the University of Portsmouth, we have used AFM in areas such as the early growth of copper electrodeposits in the presence of organic additives, topographical studies of zincate immersion layers, electroless nickel coatings and ceramic electrode materials. We have also used the technique for quantitative surface metrication studies and surface roughness characterization of femoral heads (90%Ti, 6%Al, 4%V) of hip prostheses. This paper provides a concise review of these techniques and their application in surface finishing. Future developments of the technique in the areas of metal finishing and corrosion are also considered.