NER: Nanoscale Organic Spintronics

University Of Cincinnati Main Campus, Cincinnati OH

Investigators

Abstract

The objective of this research is to investigate nanoscale organic spintronics and organic opto-spintronics based on n-conjugated polymers. By injecting spin polarized electrons and holes into self assembled heterolayered organic nanowires using magnetically aligned ferromagnetic contacts, it will be possible to suppress the non-emissive triplet electron hole recombination and promote the singlet electron hole recombination. This will increase quantum efficiency and produce bright organic light emitting nanodiodes. Our recent work has demonstrated exceptionally long spin relaxation times in n-conjugated polymers. This is promising for the development of nanowire based organic magnetic random access memory based on spin valves. Since the memory devices will be nanowires with a density > 1011 cm-2, extremely high density memory is feasible. The intellectual merit of this work consists of elucidating spin transport in organics, providing critical understanding of spin relaxation modes, and building the framework necessary for the realization of nanoscale organic opto-spintronics. The broad impact will be the possible realization of spin-enhanced bright organic light emitting diodes. These inexpensive light sources will be compatible with flexible substrates and will be produced by simple beaker electrochemistry. It is anticipated that there is a significant demand for these products. An additional outcome will be organic based nanowire magnetic random access memory elements which are non-volatile. Graduate students trained in this program will be valuable assets in the emerging marketplace.