The National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics (NICPB) is asked to do following research: (i) to induce magnetic and multiferroic behavior into nonmagnetic materials; (ii) to characterize ceramic high-TC films and pellets and study their vortex structure; (iii) to do research of prototype solid oxide fuel cell stack components; (iv) to investigate cantilever based novel experimental approaches. However, equipment, which is at disposal of the NICPB cannot ensure adequate quality of the research work to be done. Therefore, a high-resolution AFM (Atomic Force Microscope) of less than 25 mm diameter into the PPMS^® (Physical Property Measurement System) of Quantum Design will be purchased and installed. This unique microscope combined with the PPMS^® which has been already obtained by using the EU funds, provides the researcher with required tools.

The goal is to improve research infrastructure for materials’ research and to extend training opportunities for students and junior researchers in experimental techniques for materials research.

Junior researchers (Masters and PhD students, Postdoctoral researchers)

The project envisages the following activities: (i) procurement of the AFM/MFM equipment; (ii) selection of the applicants for AFM/MFM training; (iii) preparation of the facility according to requirements and installation of the system; and (iv) user trainings on AFM/MFM.

Achieved results:  

• AFM/MFM system integrated with PPMS (Physical Property Measuring System) has been installed
• 8 Estonian researchers cooperate with the Swiss Scanning Probe Microscopy User Laboratory in frame of the AFM/MFM (atomic/magnetic Force Microscope) equipment
• 5 Research projects have started by using the PPMS-AFM
• 5 publications have used data received by using the PPMS-AFM

Phase 1 01.11.2010 - 31.12.2013   (Completed)