Crystalline structure and squeeze-out dissipation of liquid solvation layers observed by small-amplitude dynamic AFM

Using frequency-modulation atomic force microscopy (FM-AFM) at sub-nanometer vibration amplitudes, we find in the system n-dodecanol/graphite that solvation layers may extend for several nanometers into the bulk liquid. These layers maintain crystalline order which can be imaged using FM-AFM. The energy dissipation of the vibrating tip can peak sharply upon penetration of molecular layers. The tip shape appears critical for this effect.