Nanoscale Surface Investigations of Semiconducting Metal Oxides

Tulane University, New Orleans LA

Investigators

Abstract

This research project, supported in the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program, examines the surface structure, defect structure, and surface chemistry of the semiconducting metal oxides TiO2, SnO2, and ZnO. Using scanning probe microscopy, coupled with UHV electron spectroscopic methods, a detailed understanding of the effects of surface and defect structure on the surface chemistry of these important materials is obtained. Professor Ulrike Diebold and her group in the Department of Physics at Tulane University are applying this information to the development of novel gas sensing devices. High temperature semiconducting oxide sensors are used in a variety of gas sensing and monitoring applications. The detailed understanding of the surface structure and surface chemistry of these oxide materials is crucial to the design of robust sensors in these applications. Professor Diebold's studies of the surface structure and chemistry of this class of materials is providing this information and understanding.