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.