Nanoscale IR spectroscopy and imaging with a versatile broadband IR laser source

We demonstrate a state-of-the-art nanoIR instrument that integrates a broadband mid-IR OPO/DFG system from APE GmbH with a scanning probe system from Bruker. This broadband laser covers an extended wavelength range, and works in both broadband and narrowband modes. The broadband mode covers the range of 670-4000 cm-1 (2.5-15 μm) allowing fast acquisition of s-SNOM spectrum. The narrowband mode covers the range of 670-2200 cm-1 (4.5-15 μm), giving access to key molecular vibrational modes commonly used for chemical identification in the “fingerprint” region. With its higher spectral resolution, the narrowband enables s-SNOM imaging at defined IR wavelength, as well as AFM-IR spectroscopy and imaging. The comprehensive capabilities and performance of this combined system are highlighted by the high quality results obtained from several representative samples including 2D material, polymer film and biological sample.