NanoInk has introduced the DPN 5000: its next-generation dip pen nanolithography (DPN) system for desktop nanofabrication.
Having evolved from the NScriptort DPN system, the DPN 5000 is claimed to bring greater control and performance to desktop nanofabrication.
The instrument is intended to offer versatile nanopatterning capabilities coupled with high-performance atomic force microscopy (AFM) imaging for immediate characterisation of the deposited patterns.
NanoInk has developed a variety of custom micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS)-based ink delivery devices, allowing a wide range of materials to be deposited under precisely controlled conditions.
System highlights include an ultra-low noise scanner with closed-loop flexure technology to produce accurate and repeatable nanoscale patterns.
For subsequent imaging of substrates, a low coherence laser with a reduced laser spot size is intended to assure high-quality lateral-force imaging.
In addition, NanoInk's enhanced lithography software, InkCADT 4.0, includes improved control of tip-based patterning, along with nanoscale mapping and positioning, allowing users to precisely position multiple features even when created from different materials.
The DPN 5000 comes equipped with a full range of enabling MEMS-based ink delivery consumable items.
Manufactured in NanoInk's MEMS facility, these DPN patterning tools include single probes, 1D passive probe arrays, individually actuated Active PenT arrays, 2D probe arrays with up to 55,000 pens (2D nano PrintArrayT), Inkwells for coating tips and substrates to be written upon.
These devices allow researchers to rapidly create nanostructures using numerous materials including proteins, DNA, nanoparticles and polymers.
The vehicle for deposition may include pyramidal scanning probe microscope tips, hollow tips and tips on thermally actuated cantilevers.
