The Improvement in the AFM Image After Applying a Lucy- Richardon Deconvolution Algorithm Using a New Technique for Estimating the AFM Tip Shape From the Square Sample

Abstract

The images measured using AFM are distorted because of the influence of the tip geometry. This influence let the images do not accurately represent the real shape of the measured particles or cells. Therefore, it is necessary to reconstruct the AFM tip shape. This paper proposed a new approach (impulse response technique) to reconstruct the tip shape from a square sample. Once the tip shape is known, erosion or deconvolution process has been carried out between the estimated tip shape and the distorted image. The experimental results and the computer simulations validate the performance of the proposed approach in which it illustrates that the AFM image accuracy has been greatly improved. Also, we have compared the proposed algorithm with the blind tip estimation algorithm using computer simulations and real AFM images, and our algorithm has given better results. It is worth mentioning here that the blind tip estimation is the industrial and research standard algorithm for the restoration of AFM images.