Atomic corrugation in nc-AFM of alkali halides

The atomic corrugation of alkali halides measured by non-contact force microscopy undergoes strong variations at low-coordinated sites like steps. We present experimental results on structured KBr surfaces and discuss the contrast mechanisms. Chemical sensitivity of the atomic corrugation is demonstrated for a mixed alkali halide crystal. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.