Building a 3D Printed Atomic-Resolution Scanning Tunneling Microscope (STM) | DIY STM Explained

Video Description

The link to the GitHub repo for all design files and raw data: https://github.com/MechRedPanda/red-panda-stm/blob/main/README.md In this video, I share the journey of creating the world’s first fully 3D-printed Scanning Tunneling Microscope (STM) — an instrument capable of visualizing individual atoms! From designing and constructing the piezoelectric scanner to crafting atomic-sharp tungsten tips, this project pushes the boundaries of DIY science at home. Using affordable, 3D-printed parts, I tackled the technical challenges of building an STM in my living room, including how to achieve atomic resolution with just a few cents' worth of components. Discover how I: Recreated Dan Berard's open-source STM design and took it to the next level with 3D-printed components. Built a piezoelectric actuator capable of sub-nanometer accuracy. Crafted precision tips from tungsten wire for atomic-level scanning. Designed a vibration isolation system to stabilize the STM and achieve clean scans. Developed custom electronics, including amplifiers and control circuits for STM operation. This video is packed with technical insights on atomic-resolution scanning, the challenges of piezoelectric ceramics, tips on 3D printing for high-precision projects, and more. Watch till the end to see actual atomic images of carbon atoms from a piece of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG). If you enjoy DIY science, physics, and groundbreaking 3D printing projects, make sure to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon for more!