Understanding Conduction Mechanisms in Nano-Structures

Keywords:
nanostructure, ionic conductor, electrical properties

Abstract:
Many technologies require the understanding of conduction and electrical transport mechanisms through nanostructures. Previous research has revealed unusual and enhanced conduction properties in pores whose width is significantly less than 1 m over a range of +10V to -10V. Characterization of the enhanced conduction will include experimental measurements and theoretical models looking to explain the effects of nanopore size, bulk ionic concentration, solute ionic charge, solvent, semiconductor versus metallic contacts and voltage upon conduction current. The model will attempt to adapt the concepts of the ionic atmosphere, dielectric effects at interfaces, ionic density and mobility to the unique environment within the nanopore. By exploiting the enhanced current, there exists the potential for order-of-magnitude improvements in sensors, computation and communications. Conduction and attachment mechanisms are the cornerstone to the successful integration of nano-devices into Naval systems using conventional semiconductors.

Nanotech 2008 Conference Program Abstract