Using various SPM-based methods, we were and are studying the local mechanical properties of polymer blends, nanocomposites, and nanomaterials. First, we developed expertise in force-curve measurement and force modulation microscopy (FMM) to locally measure and map the elastic and viscoelastic properties of polymers and polymer blends. Then, in the frame work of the PhD thesis of Stéphane Cuenot, we developed the "Resonant Contact-AFM" (Resonant C-AFM) method that allowed us measuring the elastic modulus of polymer and metallic nanowires and nanotubes and characterising the elastic modulus gradient in polymer blends. Presently, we are extensively using modes such as HarmoniX®, PFT-QNM® and force-volume to study the local properties in polymer blends, composites and nanocomposites, especially at the interfaces.
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