Detection and Application of Embedded Degrees of Freedom in Nanoassembled Quantum Materials

Stanford University, Stanford CA

Investigators

Abstract

Technical This project will apply atomic and molecular manipulation to the nanoscale assembly of novel quantum materials?materials whose structural and electronic properties are dominated by quantum mechanics and give rise to either novel behavior or promising technologies. The primary experimental apparatus for these investigations is a custom-built low-temperature scanning tunneling microscope capable of controlling matter at atomic length scales, operating at Stanford University. Model nanoscale materials will be assembled to target three quantum degrees of freedom that are playing increasingly vital roles in modern science and technology: the vibronic degree of freedom, quantum mechanical phase of electrons, and spin/pseudospin. For these studies, several operating modes of the apparatus will be exploited to perform studies within an environment comprised of ultra-high vacuum, low temperature of 4 K or below, and a high magnetic field up to 9 T. Controlled atom and molecule manipulation and atom-by-atom assembly of complex nanostructures are capabilities existing now only at the frontiers of science and technology. The students involved in this proposed research and education plan will receive a unique and cross-discipline training in emerging fields now universally identified as critical to society and the understanding of nature. Non-technical It is now possible to manipulate single atoms and molecules and piece together new materials truly ?from the bottom up.? This project will apply atom and molecule manipulation to assemble novel quantum materials?materials whose structural and electronic properties are dominated by quantum mechanics and give rise to either novel behavior or promising technologies. The primary experimental apparatus for these investigations is a unique and custom-built scanning tunneling microscope operating at Stanford University. Model nanoscale materials will be assembled to target three quantum degrees of freedom that are playing increasingly vital roles in modern science and technology: the vibronic degree of freedom (the ?shaking? of single chemical bonds), quantum mechanical phase of electrons (akin to the phase of traveling waves), and spin/pseudospin (the built-in magnetism of materials). Controlled atom and molecule manipulation and atom-by-atom assembly of complex nanostructures are capabilities existing now only at the frontiers of science and technology. The students involved in this proposed research and education plan will receive a unique and cross-discipline training in emerging fields now universally identified as critical to society and the understanding of nature.