Physics Today - November 2020
Ultrathin vibration-isolation platform
Minus K designed its CT-2 to be the thinnest low-frequency-vibration passive isolator for micro- and nanomicroscopy. Its negative-stiffness isolation aims to minimize the low-frequency vibrations that can be problematic for sensitive instrumentation, particularly at the nanometer level, without involving compressed air or electricity. Operating purely in a passive mechanical mode, the tabletop unit delivers ½ Hz vertical and ~1½ Hz horizontal natural frequencies—better vibration-isolation performance at low frequency than air tables and active systems, the company claims. With no motors, pumps, or chambers, there is nothing to wear out and no maintenance, and the small size—just 2½ inches high—mitigates space constraints. Besides various microscopy techniques—including scanning probe, scanning electron, and atomic force--the CT-2 can be used in laser, optical, biological, and neuroscience systems and in applications such as microhardness, nanoindenter, and spacecraft ground testing. Minus K Technology Inc, 460 Hindry Ave, Unit C, Inglewood, CA 90301, www.minusk.com
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