Mechanical sensors for identifying nano/micro particles

Nanomechanics offer exciting opportunities for the development of novel sensors and imaging tools for nanotechnology. Many chemical and biological processes result in nanomechanical responses that can be measured with unprecedented sensitivity using microfabricated cantilever beams. Here, we describe nanomechanical tools for visualizing nanometre-sized materials and measuring and detecting nanomechanical forces. Static mode of operation of a microcantilever sensor to sense the presence of biological and chemical agents using forces involved in adsorption process, and a dynamic mode of detection of mass adsorption are addressed. The paper also explains how microcantilevers are used to measure gas and liquid viscosity, which may be used as a marker for the presence of biological and chemical agents. Condensation of vapours in porous structures such as charcoal results in capillary pressure-induced expansion that could be measured with a cantilever. This phenomenon can be used as a basis for developing simple sensors for chemicals.