Abstract: A multimode local probe microscope having a resonator, a first electrode, and a second electrode, an excitation source adapted to generate mechanical resonance in the resonator, a metal tip fastened to the resonator, movement mechanism for imparting relative movement between the local probe and a sample and adapted to bring the end of the tip to within a distance Z lying in the range 0 to 100 nm, and detector for detecting at least one electrical signal representative of friction forces at the terminals of said electrodes. The metal tip is electrically connected to the output second electrode and the microscopy apparatus includes amplifier and filter for amplifying and filtering signals relating to the friction forces and to the tunnelling current in a single electronic circuit, and configured for regulating the distance Z between the end of the tip and the surface of the sample.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a multimode local probe microscope having a resonator (1), a first electrode (9), and a second electrode (8), an excitation source adapted to generate mechanical resonance in the resonator, a metal tip (4) fastened to the resonator, movement means for imparting relative movement between the local probe and a sample and adapted to bring the end of the tip to within a distance Z lying in the range 0 to 100 nm, and detector means for detecting at least one electrical signal representative of friction forces at the terminals of said electrodes (8, 9). According to the invention, said metal tip (4) is electrically connected to said output second electrode (9) and the microscopy apparatus includes amplifier and filter means for amplifying and filtering signals relating to the friction forces and to the tunnelling current in a single electronic circuit, and means for regulating the distance Z between the end of the tip and the surface of the sample.

Abstract: The invention relates to a nanoprobe comprising a silica fiber (2) with an end opening having a diameter of less than 100 nm, and a metallic sheath (11). The total diameter of the silica part and the metallic sheath (11) is less than 300 nm. The invention also relates to a method for producing one such nanoprobe.

Abstract: The invention relates to a nanoprobe comprising a silica fibre (2) with an end opening having a diameter of less than 100 nm, and a metallic sheath (11). The total diameter of the silica part and the metallic sheath (11) is less than 300 nm. The invention also relates to a method for producing one such nanoprobe.