Single-Crystal Fine-Positioning Devices for Scanned-Probe Microscopies

We have developed a novel fine-positioning device for scanned-probe microscopies. Instead of the conventional scanner tube made of ceramic PZT material, we have constructed analogous structures from single-crystal piezoelectric wafers. Single-crystal materials, in particular Lithium Niobate, are available which solve many of the problems inherent with PZT. In addition, their superior thermal and mechanical properties lead to improved performance in a number of significant ways. We discuss the actual implementation of this idea in the construction of a scanner, possible applications for this design, and briefly discuss results obtained.