Manipulation of gold nanoparticles in liquid environments using scanning force microscopy

Precise and controlled manipulation of individual gold nanoparticles (depos ited on a Si/SiO2 surface) in liquid environments using the tip of a scanni ng force microscope is reported for the first time. Experiments were perfor med in deionized water and in ethanol as a prototype for an organic solvent . Analysis of the amplitude signal of the cantilever before and during mani pulation reveals that the particles are pushed across the surface, similar to the manipulation of nanoparticles in air. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.