We found that using a Platinum-Iridium tip constructed with wire-cutters, and a Burleigh Instructional STM, quality picture of graphite and molybdenum disulfide could be obtained. This images could be collected at various magnifications and filtered using various techniques. We found the technique of Fast-Fourier-Transform which reduced high frequency noise to be the best. Furthermore, by performing a cross sectional analysis of the images, qualitative and quantitative information as to the exact surface structure of the substances could be obtained.
Due to time limitations, we were a bit frustrated that we did not have more time to pursue the etching of a Tungsten tip and refine the process. We feel that this method, in the long run, will produce a better quality tip and thus result in finer images. Furthermore in the analysis of MoS2 we found the scaling error in our data to be relatively constant leading us to believe an error had been made in the configuration of the system. Another source of error included random vibration from the surrounds.
Future project might want to investigate the liquid crystal structure, and perhaps look larger molecules such as nucleotides plated on a graphite surface.