Mid-infrared spectroscopy beyond the diffraction limit via direct measurement of the photothermal effect

An atomic force microscope equipped with temperature sensitive probes was used to measure locally the photothermal effect induced by IR light absorption. This novel instrument opens a pathway to correlated topographical, chemical composition, and thermal mapping with nanoscale resolution. Proof of principle demonstration is provided on polymers and plasmonic samples.An atomic force microscope equipped with temperature sensitive probes was used to measure locally the photothermal effect induced by IR light absorption. This novel instrument opens a pathway to correlated topographical, chemical composition, and thermal mapping with nanoscale resolution. Proof of principle demonstration is provided on polymers and plasmonic samples.

Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr04854k