Polymer films. Coloured atomic force micrograph (AFM) of a multi-layer thin polymer film. The outer layers (granulated) are polyethylene, the layers within these are nylon and the inner layer is of unknown composition. The crystalline pattern in the nylon is due to shear banding. Atomic force microscopy produces an image by passing a thin probe across the subject's surface. The probe is spring mounted, and is continuously adjusted to maintain a constant height above the sample. A computer then builds up an image of the surface, which can resolve individual atoms. Deflection image. Magnification: x2200 at 6x6cm size.