NANOscientific Forum Europe 2026
At the NANOscientific Forum Europe 2026, held from 9–11 September at Charles University in Prague, c-sense presented the collaborative work “Rotational AFM/CFM for Quantum Optical Twisting Microscopy.”
Developed together with partners from attocube systems, ETH Zurich, EPFL, and the Weizmann Institute of Science, the platform combines advanced microscopy techniques with c-sense self-sensing cantilever technology to support nanoscale investigations of quantum materials under cryogenic conditions.
Combining Rotational AFM and Confocal Microscopy
The electronic and optical properties of many two-dimensional quantum materials strongly depend on the relative rotational angle between their individual layers. Investigating these twist-angle-dependent phenomena requires precise positioning, stable low-temperature operation, and the integration of multiple measurement techniques within a compact experimental environment.
The presented platform combines Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and Confocal Fluorescence Microscopy (CFM) in two configurations. Depending on the experimental requirements, either the sample or the AFM probe can be rotated while maintaining accurate positioning inside an attoDRY2200 cryostat.
Self-Sensing Cantilevers for Cryogenic Integration
A key component of the platform is the c-sense self-sensing piezoresistive Trilayer cantilever. Its integrated electrical readout eliminates the need for an external optical beam-deflection system, reducing the space required around the cantilever and simplifying integration into compact cryogenic instrumentation.
The poster also presented a novel inverted cantilever configuration and the integration of a self-sensing AFM module. Initial measurements demonstrate stable cantilever operation and low-noise AFM imaging within the experimental setup.
Preliminary QOTM Measurements
The presented results demonstrate several capabilities of the rotational AFM/CFM platform, including:
- precise repositioning of the rotation axis at low temperatures,
- controlled rotation of either the sample or the AFM probe,
- combined AFM and confocal microscopy,
- nanoscale topographic imaging,
- electrical characterization through conductance measurements,
- approach–retract force measurements,
- imaging using tunnelling current.
These capabilities provide a versatile experimental basis for studying how the properties of quantum materials evolve as a function of the twist angle.
Collaborative Research at NSFE 2026
NANOscientific Forum Europe brought together researchers working in AFM, nanoscale imaging, surface analysis, 2D materials, and advanced metrology. Presenting the QOTM platform provided an opportunity to discuss the experimental concept and the role of self-sensing cantilevers with specialists from across the nanoscience community.
This project combines expertise in cryogenic instrumentation, quantum optics, AFM technology, and self-sensing cantilever development from attocube systems, ETH Zurich, EPFL, the Weizmann Institute of Science, and c-sense.
Looking Ahead
The integration of rotational control, AFM, confocal microscopy, and self-sensing cantilever technology opens new possibilities for investigating twist-angle-dependent phenomena at the nanoscale.
At c-sense, we are proud to contribute our self-sensing cantilever technology to this innovative measurement platform. We thank the organisers and participants of NANOscientific Forum Europe 2026 for the valuable discussions and inspiring scientific exchange in Prague.
Download the full poster to explore the experimental setup and preliminary results.