Scanning Tunneling Microscopy Probes of Self-Assembled Molecular Layers Physisorbed at Liquid-Solid Interfaces

Columbia University, New York NY

Investigators

Abstract

The Experimental Physical Chemistry Program of the Division of Chemistry, National Science Foundation, supports the work of Prof. George W. Flynn, Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, for his work on elucidating the factors that control self-assembly, molecular structure, and functional group conformation in chiral and achiral molecular films physisorbed at liquid-solid interfaces. A rather unique Scanning Tunneling Microscopy approach will be developed and used to determine chemical structure and dynamics at these interfaces. The results of the study will be of fundamental interest and of practical importance in the design of self-assembled interfaces. The observation, control and manipulation of these interfaces will be significant in the development of next generation microscopic optical and electronic devices, chemical sensors, and biomedical monitors that function on the nanoscale dimension. Undergraduate and graduate students, and post-doctoral associates will acquire considerable experience and skills in a variety of physical methods in the developing field of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology.