Development of Nano-blackboard with Nanoscopic Additional Processing

This study aims to develop nano-level image storage, “Nano-blackboard” with nanoscopic additional processing, using an atomic force microscope (AFM) probe as chalk and glass as blackboard. This study also clarifies the optimal conditions for using chalk, and proposes a theoretical formula to estimate the volume of wear particles and transfer particles left on the blackboard. This formula is based upon thermodynamics, because chemical reactions are responsible for wear of chalk. The volume of wear particles and transfer particles calculated using this formula are consistent with the obtained experimental values. Furthermore, character shapes are fabricated efficiently by processing under optimal conditions based on this formula.