Plasma treatment is used in atomic force microscopy (AFM) to clean and modify sample surfaces, enhancing imaging quality and data accuracy. By removing contaminants and introducing functional groups, plasma treatment improves the adhesion and stability of samples on AFM substrates. This process is particularly valuable for preparing delicate or sensitive materials, ensuring they remain intact during imaging. Additionally, plasma-treated surfaces can reduce tip contamination and artifacts, leading to clearer and more reliable AFM results. Overall, plasma treatment is a crucial step in preparing samples for high-resolution and precise AFM analysis.
