"Scanning near-field optical microscopy (SNOM) is a technique of imaging used for mapping optical near-field signals by detecting evanescent waves, enabling a resolution beyond the diffraction limit, i.e., a lateral and vertical resolution much smaller than the operation wavelength. SNOM has the ability to measure both optical and topographic data in a single scan. In this thesis, we propose the development and optimization of a low-cost SNOM capable of measuring nanoscale topographies and near-field optical signals, such as surface plasmon polaritons. The SNOM uses a shear-force feedback control to set the distance between the probe and the sample (∼ 20 nm) along the entire scan.The results obtained include a stable control system with fast response. The system can provide precise quantitative topographic and optical measurements. Also, an optical method for distance and displacement measurements of the probe-sample separation was developed. "--Resumen hoja v.

Making a clear distinction is made between nano- and micro-mechanical testing for physical reasons, this monograph describes the basics and applications of the supermicroscopies AFM and SNOM, and of the nanomechanical testing on rough and technical natural surfaces in the submicron range down to a lateral resolution of a few nm. New or improved instrumentation, new physical laws and unforeseen new applications in all branches of natural sciences (around physics, chemistry, mineralogy, materials science, biology and medicine) and nanotechnology are covered as well as the sources for pitfalls and errors. It outlines the handling of natural and technical samples in relation to those of flat standard samples and emphasizes new special features. Pitfalls and sources of errors are clearly demonstrated as well as their efficient remedy when going from molecularly flat to rough surfaces. The academic or industrial scientist learns how to apply the principles for tackling their scientific or manufacturing tasks that include roughness far away from standard samples.

The near-field scanning optical microscope, or NSOM, proyides spatial resolution of surface features considerably smaller than the wavelength of the radiation used to image. We have focused on both the development and the use of the NSOM. In the former, we considered the confinement of optical fields to nanometric structures. We analyzed the delivery of light from the far-field to the near-field region in tapered optical fibers. Our analysis led to the design and development of near-field probes of that allow for the performance of relatively light-starved NSOM experiments. Using such probes, we have demonstrated a capability of using spectral contrast in near-field imaging. In studies of KTP, for example, we have performed nano-Raman spectroscopy samples, and have imaged sub-wavelength surfaces features using only Raman-scattered light. In ongoing research we have launced further efforts to improve probe design and have begun nano-Raman investigations Mercury Cadmium Telluride and semiconducting diamond.