Nanotack test: adhesive behavior of single latex particles

We present an investigation of the adhesive properties of latex films with nanometric thickness through force spectroscopy using an atomic force micro scope (AFM). The AFM tip can be used to indent and excite mechanically one single latex particle, and provides an adhesion test which resembles macros copic probe tack test, but at nanometric scales. We show that this AFM nano tack test can be analyzed quantitatively, normalizing the total rupture ene rgy by the contact area formed during the indentation step. This contact ar ea depends upon the mechanical properties and environment of the latex part icle. (C) 2000 Academie des sciences/Editions scientifiques et medicales El sevier SAS.