Some recent developments in SPM of crystalline polymers

Some recent advances in the application of atomic force microscopy to cryst alline polymers are detailed. Ultra-high resolution imaging of crystal surf aces, combined with the analysis of computer generated Connolly surfaces, e nables the unambiguous identification of features on the cellulose crystal surface at near-atomic resolution. The electronic enhancement of the qualit y factor of the cantilever when tapping in liquids enables a considerable i mprovement in force sensitivity to be obtained, allowing the fully saturate d surface of an isotactic polystyrene gel to be imaged under the solvating molecule, at nanometre resolution. A series of experiments are detailed in which precesses such as crystallization, crystal thickening and crystal def ormation are followed in situ, in real time, providing significant new insi ghts into long standing problems in polymer science.