NER: Electrodeposition of Nanostructured Compound Semiconductors

University Of Georgia Research Foundation Inc, Athens GA

Investigators

Abstract

This Nanoscale Exploratory Research (NER) proposal was submitted in response to the solicitation "Nanoscale Science and Engineering" (NSF 01-157). The goal of the project is to form superlattice nanostructures using electrochemical atomic layer epitaxy (EC-ALE). EC-ALE is based on surface limited electrochemical reactions, and is complementary to traditional techniques such as MBE and VPE, with the possibility of deposition on odd-shaped surfaces such as tubes, and strongly reduced diffusion, since the process takes place at room temperature. Specific research objectives are: 1. Growth of compound semiconductor superlattices. 2. Electrodeposition of compounds on nano array electrodes. 3. Growth of superlattice nanocrystals. 4. Studies of delta doping. The impact and significance of this project may be summarized as follows. There is a strong demand for increased package density of electronic structures, combined with a trend to electrochemical processes for production in the chip industry. The search for improved optoelectronic materials, like photovoltaic cells and infrared detectors is actively pursued in both the private and government sector. On the scientific front, the interest in nanostructured materials continues to rise, based on the large parameter-space available to engineer novel materials. EC-ALE offers unique approaches to the deposition of nanoscale structures, and access to materials that cannot readily be produced by MBE or VPE. The proposed project relies on both the deposition and characterization of nanostructured semiconductors. A cross-disciplinary approach is taken, combining aspects of Chemistry and Physics. %%% The project addresses basic exploratory research issues in a topical area of materials science with high technological relevance. An important feature of the program is the integration of research and education through the training of students in a fundamentally and technologically significant area. The project is co-supported by the MPS/DMR and MPS/CHE Divisions. ***