Quantum electronic transport through a single row of c60 molecules

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Project objective

Research objectives and content We intend to investigate quantum electronic transport through a single row of C60 molecules positioned between nanoscale electrodes using the tip of a scanning tunnelling microscope. A silicon substrate will be utilised which has been proven to be suitable for the positioning of individual C60 molecules into row patterns that are stable at room temperature. Existing techniques fo the fabrication of nanoscale electrodes will be developed in order to be compatible with clean semiconductor surfaces. Both the device fabrication and the measurements down to 2K will be carried out in ultra-high vacuum which allows atomically clear nanostructures. Most significantly, this project is aimed not just at making molecular nanostructures, but also at measuring their physica properties. Quantum electronic transport through a single row of C60 will be measured for the first time. Such a row of C60 ball- provides a model system for studying electron-electron interactions. The conductance may be modulated by an external gate allowing for a three terminal device. New phenomena can be expected from this exploratory study. Training content (objective, benefit and expected impact) The applicant will broaden his knowledge in mesoscopic physics through the study of quantum electrical transport throug molecular wires and devices. Cryogenic transport techniques will be learned encompassing ultra-low noise electronics. The uniqu NEXT facility at Delft offers the applicant a wide range of surface science and nanofabrication experiments. Links with industry / industrial relevance (22) The project is an exploratory study of the feasibility of molecular-scale electronics. Current research of the group at Delft involves industrial collaborations with Siemens (D), Ericson (S), PTB (D), NMI (NL) and NTT (J).

Original text from CORDIS.

Participants

• DELFT UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY · DELFTCoordinatorNetherlands

Links

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