ATOMIC-FORCE MICROSCOPY IN FOOD RESEARCH - A NEW TECHNIQUE COMES OF AGE

Probe microscopes image surfaces by touching them with a sharp probe o r stylus. The resolution of such microscopes is determined by the size and shape of the probe, and the accuracy with which it can be positio ned relative to the sample surface. Under suitable conditions, these m icroscopes are capable of imaging atoms and molecules. This article fo cuses on the potential of such techniques for studying complex food ma terials.