Tapping mode and phase imaging of biaxially oriented polyester films

The surface morphology and mechanical properties of biaxially drawn poly(ethylene terephthalate) film surfaces have been investigated with tapping mode scanning force microscopy. Imaging with high tapping forces caused tip-induced wear of the polymer surface. The damage was avoided by tapping at lower force. It is then possible to utilize phase detection imaging to provide ready access to surface properties such as stiffness and adhesion. Phase imaging has revealed a wealth of detailed surface structure information not seen in previous studies of heterogeneous polyester film materials. Not only are the different components of heterogeneous materials resolved with remarkable clarity, but detailed information is also provided on the phase morphology of individual components and on homogeneous polyester film materials. Copyright (C) 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.