Seminars & Events

Computations of Science Seminar
"Dried to order and Mechanical Properties of Self-Assembled Nanoparticle Monolayers"

DATE: August 15, 2007
TIME: 12:30 p.m.
SPEAKER: Heinrich Jaeger
LOCATION: KPTC 206, University of Chicago

Description:
Close-packed nanoparticles separated by short spacer molecules form a new class of solids with unique behavior that arises from the interplay of nanoscale confinement and unable coupling. I will discuss experiments performed by our group on the ultrathin limit of such solids, a single layer of close-packed metal nanoparticles. It turns out that such layers can be self-assembled with very high degree of structural order by a simple drying mechanism. With inter- particle spacings of 1-2nm, electrons can tunnel across these layers and the resulting nonlinear current-voltage characteristics reflect strong Coulomb blockade effects. Surprisingly, the short molecular spacers also provide for tensile strength and the layers can be draped over holes, forming flexible membranes of remarkable resilience.

More Information:
Discussion over bag-lunch at 12:15 p.m.
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