A Scanning Near-Field Infrared Microscope Based on AgClBr Fiber Probes

We have developed a Scanning Near-field Infrared Microscope (SNIM) that is based on tapered fiber probes made of AgClBr. This microscope can be used for thermal imaging and spectral imaging in the middle infrared, in the spectral range of 5-15 mum, with a subwavelength spatial resolution. We have used the microscope for imaging of inorganic and organic samples that were either placed in air or immersed in water. We have already adapted the system for the study of living biological cells of sizes smaller than a wavelength. Such a study promises to be important both as a pure scientific tool in biology and as a diagnostic tool in medicine.