Keywords: Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics

Keywords: Nanomaterials, Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Nanofabrication

Keywords: Nanometrology & Characterization, Nanofabrication, Commercializing nanotechnology

Keywords: Nanomaterials, Nanorobotics & Nanomanufacturing, Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems

Keywords: Nanomaterials

Keywords: Nanomaterials, Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems

Keywords: Nanomaterials, Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Nanofabrication
Abstract: An innovative ultra-high-vacuum (UHV) apparatus for the growth of nanostructured quantum materials based on Pulsed Laser Deposition (PLD) technique is here presented. The so-called Dual-PLD combines the use of excimer KrF ultraviolet and solid-state Nd:YAG infra-red lasers to successfully grow a large variety of materials in the form of thin films and heterostructures. These are not limited to oxides but range from selenides to metals and others. Moreover, being UHV-connected to the APE-beamline at the Elettra synchrotron radiation facility, the Dual-PLD allows synchrotron-based angular resolved photo-emission spectroscopy (ARPES) on untreated samples thus enabling the so-called Direct-ARPES experiments. The results show that the Dual-PLD adds to the unique flexibility of the technique also for fabricating multiple heterostructures of very high quality, and the compactness and compatibility with in-situ surface analysis setups and therefore providing new viable routes to determine the true nature of the quantum phenomena at the surface of materials and to precisely craft their physical properties.

Keywords: Nanomaterials

Keywords: Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics, Nanomaterials
Abstract: Two dimensional materials are very sensitive to the surrounding environment because of their high surface-to-volume ratio. Herein, we investigated the electrical properties of few-layer ReS2 back-gated field effect transistors at different pressures. The lowering pressure increases the conductivity and reduces both the Ion/Ioff ratio and the hysteresis width, revealing that air molecules, such as H2O and O2, adsorbed on the ReS2 surface in ambient conditions, act as electron traps. The gas molecules adsorption and desorption processes also impact the photoresponse of the device. This was investigated by looking at the switching behaviour of the device under supercontinuum white laser pulses of different powers and durations in air, low vacuum and high vacuum.

Keywords: Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics, Nanofabrication, Nanomaterials

Keywords: Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics, Nanofabrication, Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials

Keywords: Nanomaterials, Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics, Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials

Keywords: Modeling & Simulation, Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics, Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials

Keywords: Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics, Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials, Nanofabrication

Keywords: Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics, Nanomaterials, Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials

Keywords: Nano-biomedicine, Nanomaterials, Nanodiamond and nanocarbon structures: materials and devices

Keywords: Nano-biomedicine, Nanofabrication, MEMS/NEMS

Keywords: Nano-biomedicine, Nanomaterials

Keywords: Nano-biomedicine, Nanomaterials, Nanometrology & Characterization
Abstract: Mechanical signals are essential determinants of cell behaviour. Cells are indeed living mechanical entities that exist in a constant dynamic equilibrium of forces: inner forces, generated by the pulling capacity of the actin cytoskeleton are counterbalanced by resisting forces in the extracellular matrix (ECM); vice versa, changes in rigidity or organization of the ECM impose cells to respond by restructuring their cytoskeleton and inner tension until a new equilibrium is achieved. This interplay impacts cell shape and gene expression through the activity of mechanotransducing transcription factors. Unbalanced cell mechanics reflects a deviation from normal tissue architecture and is indeed a universal feature of the disease. Recently, we demonstrated how interfering with cell mechanics oppose transformation and re-install benign attributes to tumour cells, by studying these effects on cell shape and cytoskeleton rearrangements to investigate their effects on phenotypic reversion by means of nanoindentation and optical confocal/STED microscopy. Notably, a precise control, understanding, and modulation of cell adhesion and mechanical response could be exploited to test novel inhibitor drugs and/or suppress metastatic tumour subpopulations, which are also very easily deformable, allowing tissue infiltration and migration in and out blood vessels.

Keywords: Nano-biomedicine, Modeling & Simulation
Abstract: Microwave hyperthermia is a promising therapeutic modality in oncology against deep-seated tumors such as bone cancers. However, antennas and radiating sources fails in providing the therapeutic heat without affecting the healthy tissues. Magnetic nanocomposite biomaterials, called magnetic scaffolds, can be implanted to be used as hyperthermia agents. The possibility of using magneto-dielectric biocompatible implant for performing microwave hyperthermia has been poorly investigated. Furthermore, the possibility of using magnetic scaffolds as microwave-responsive theranostic agents has never been explored. In other words, if and how the change of magnetic properties during the hyperthermia treatment could be detected by using microwave signal has been not investigated so far. In this work, a simplified mono-dimensional electromagnetic propagation model in a multilayer structure by means of the wave-amplitude transmission method has been proposed. The properties of the bolus-matching medium, a suitable set of working frequency for performing the hyperthermia treatment and the monitoring with microwaves has been found. The temperature increase in the tumor and scaffold have been simulated. Then, through the differential analysis of the variation of the transmission coefficient during the treatment it has been preliminarily determined that magnetic scaffolds could be used as microwave theranostic agents.

Keywords: Nano-biomedicine, Nanomaterials, Nanosensors & Nanoactuatuators

Keywords: Nanofabrication

Keywords: MEMS/NEMS, Nanosensors & Nanoactuatuators

Keywords: Nanofabrication, Nanomaterials, Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics

Keywords: Nanofabrication, Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Nanomaterials

Keywords: Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials, Nanomaterials, Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems
Abstract: Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) is one of the extensively studied 2D materials due to its diverse physical, electrical, and chemical characteristics. However, achieving controlled synthesis and reproducibility of MoS2 nanosheets on a large scale continues to be challenging. Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) is recognized as a highly viable method for growth, given its flexibility, excellent reproducibility, and capability for large-scale production. Here, we report on the growth of few-layers of MoS2 via liquid-precursor CVD using different inorganic promoters. Firstly, we study the optimal volume of the solution to achieve as thin as 2 layer thick MoS2 uniformly grown at a cm2 scale using ammonium heptamolybdate (AHM) with inorganic seed precursors, namely NaOH, KCl, and KI. Focusing on growth, we studied the growth uniformity of the as-grown MoS2. Later, we inferred the band alignment analysis of three layers of MoS2 against a SiO2/Si substrate using internal photoemission spectroscopy (IPE). We found a change in the valence band position from IPE threshold value of 3.9 - 4.2 eV depending on the type of inorganic promoter used with respect to the to expected value of 3.6 eV from bare MoS2, thus suggesting a role of the precursor chemistry on the properties of the so-grown few-layers of MoS2.

Keywords: Nanofabrication, Nanomaterials, Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems
Abstract: The silicidation process, used for the fabrication of contacts in MOSFETs, has met some challenges, when transferred to SiGe channel material. In this paper, the formation of germano-silicides in SiGe nano-channels is investigated. A wide range of temperatures were tested and both Ni and Ni90Ti10 were used as the diffusive metal. A repeatable process flow was established, with which a long intruded germano-silicide of around 350 nm with little to no imperfections can be achieved. A nanochannel with (NiTi)(SiGe)/SiGe junctions was gated to form an ambipolar transistor with clear n- and p-branches in its transfer characteristics.

Keywords: Nanomaterials, MEMS/NEMS, Nanosensors & Nanoactuatuators

Keywords: MEMS, NEMS, Nano-biomedicine, Nano-fluidics and integrated bio-chips
Abstract: A novel microfabricated, fully flexible, polymer MEMS device, in the form of a transdermal patch, is used to non-invasively sample interstitial fluid (ISF) for the detection of blood-borne biomolecules and biomarkers, ranging from physiological glucose and lactate, to metabolites of illicit opioid use, respectively. The 1st-generation patch, fabricated on an inflexible glass substrate, was used in a pilot clinical trial to verify passive, pain-free operation for ISF harvesting using on-chip electrochemical detection of glucose. Dermal patches are generally well-tolerated and accepted by a wide population base, especially when they are simple to use. As such, the core technology of the patch needed to be transitioned to a completely flexible device that is compliant with the skin. This paper details the successes and difficulties in pivoting to flexible polymer materials. Additionally, the new dermal patch incorporates microfluidics to sample and centrally collect sufficient volumes of ISF for off-line spectroscopic analysis rather than on-patch biomarker detection. The 2nd-generation wearable patch remains completely blood-free, relying on microheaters that generate an imperceptible heat pulse to create microscopic pores, the width of a single hair, through the topmost layer of skin, allowing ISF to emerge from the micropore. The collection and pumpless transport of quantifiable ISF is accomplished with hydrophilized polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microchannels. The flexibility of the new PDMS will be evaluated, as will efforts to mitigate PDMS contraction effects during curing.

Keywords: MEMS/NEMS, Nano-acoustic Devices, Processes & Materials
Abstract: Skin electronics for health monitoring require materials and devices with unique properties such as biocompatibility, flexibility, and high sensitivity. In this work, we describe our recent work in exploiting piezoelectric thin films, based on either aluminum nitride (AlN) or chitosan biopolymers, for skin-compliant transducers to record biomechanical signals on skin.

Keywords: Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics, Nanomagnetics, Nanosensors & Nanoactuatuators

Keywords: Nanopackaging, MEMS/NEMS, Nanomaterials

Keywords: Nanofabrication, Nanomaterials, Nanosensors & Nanoactuatuators
Abstract: In recent years, there has been a considerable emphasis on the development of flexible wearable sensors as a means of enhancing quality of life through advanced technologies. One type of sensor that has garnered significant interest is the wearable flexible pressure sensor, which holds great potential for healthcare applications and monitoring human motions. In pursuit of this objective, two piezoresistive pressure sensors were created by employing Graphene nanoplates (GNPs) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and coating them on a commercial polyester substrate, each with different concentrations of GNPs in PVDF. Examination through scanning electron microscopy reveals a uniform coating morphology on the surface of the substrate. The sensor with a higher concentration of GNP exhibits greater sensitivity, with a value of 0.139 kPa-1 over a broad operating range of 0 to 90 kPa, and 0.114 kPa-1 within the pressure range of 90 to 200 kPa. Furthermore, the response and recovery times of the sensor are 2 ms and 4 ms, respectively. This study demonstrates a promising approach for the development of flexible wearable sensors that can be integrated into footwear to monitor plantar motion activities such as walking, jumping, and standing. As a result, this approach holds significant potential for a range of physiological activity applications.

Keywords: Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Quantum, Neuromorphic & Unconventional Computing
Abstract: The performance of metal-oxide field-effect tran-sistors is studied at cryogenic temperatures. Several approaches to reduce disorder-induced band-tailing and thus improve the switching behavior of cryogenic MOSFETs are discussed.

Keywords: Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Nanofabrication, Nanomaterials

Keywords: Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics, Nanomaterials

Keywords: Modeling & Simulation, Nanomagnetics

Keywords: Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Nanometrology & Characterization, Nanomaterials
Abstract:

This study analyses the electrical breakdown (BD) for 2D mica-based nano capacitors by using conduction atomic force microscopy and post BD hillock analysis using transmission electron microscopy. The J-E characteristics show low leakage current (10^-3 A/cm² at 6.7 MV/cm stress). The high β value (58) from the breakdown voltage (V_BD) Weibull plot shows low variability in (V_BD).

Keywords: Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials, Nanomaterials

Keywords: Nanomaterials

Keywords: Nanosensors & Nanoactuatuators, Nanofabrication, Modeling & Simulation

Keywords: Nanomaterials

Keywords: Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials, Nanosensors & Nanoactuatuators

Keywords: Nanomaterials, Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Nanofabrication

Keywords: Nanomaterials, Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials, Nanoenergy, Environment & Safety
Abstract: Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) represent a viable alternative to lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) since sodium is more abundant and less expensive than lithium in nature. However, Na+ ions are bigger than Li+ ions, which makes them diffuse slower in the electrodes. Therefore, finding suitable anode materials that can achieve high performance is an interesting goal in SIB research. Titanium-based (Ti-based) anode materials have attracted a lot of attention in SIBs, because they have the benefits of being safe and stable in structure. Nanostructures provide a larger surface area for sodium ion absorption and shorter paths for their transportation. However, to achieve high performance, they need to be designed and engineered at the nanoscale level. In this article, we review the latest progress in Ti-based nanoscale structures that can improve the energy density, cycling stability, and rate capability of SIBs.

Keywords: Quantum, Neuromorphic & Unconventional Computing, Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics

Keywords: Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics

Keywords: Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics, Nanofabrication, Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems

Keywords: Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics

Keywords: Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics, Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials, Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems

Keywords: Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics, Nanofabrication, Quantum, Neuromorphic & Unconventional Computing

Keywords: Nano-biomedicine, Nano-fluidics and integrated bio-chips, Nanorobotics & Nanomanufacturing
Abstract: Conventional biological techniques for analysis of cellular molecular expression are time-consuming and labor-intensive. In this work, a paper-based microfluidic platform was developed to imitate periosteum-bone tissue microenvironment. This platform serves as an in vitro three-dimensional cell co-culture model to analyze cellular crosstalk and molecular expression of 2 different cells. The developed platform consisted of a paper substrate that was sandwiched between PDPC-hydrogel and ADSC-hydrogel suspensions. The unique design allowed for the transfer of cell secretions through the paper substrate, enabling communication between the cells on either side. Cellular crosstalk was investigated by the protein expression on the paper substrate. Additionally, the osteogenesis potential of PDPCs was examined by analyzing the mRNA expressions of the cells following culture. By utilizing the paper-based microfluidic platform, an in vitro periosteum-bone tissue microenvironment was successfully established. This innovative approach provides a promising method to study cellular crosstalk and molecular expression within a 3D co-culture microenvironment. It holds great potential for advancing the development of effective bone regeneration therapies.

Keywords: DNA Nanotechnology, Nanomaterials, Nano-biomedicine

Keywords: Nano-fluidics and integrated bio-chips, Nanosensors & Nanoactuatuators

Keywords: Nanosensors & Nanoactuatuators, Nano-biomedicine, Nanofabrication

Keywords: Nano-fluidics and integrated bio-chips, MEMS/NEMS, Modeling & Simulation;
Abstract: Toxicity assessment of novel drugs requires the development of models that provide information about the behavior of the cells and the drugs. Current cytotoxicity assays rely on data generated in vitro under static conditions, different from the conditions in the human body, where everything is dynamic and connected. Here we designed a body-on-a-chip and validated its utility to provide in silico information to better design in vitro cytotoxicity assays under dynamic conditions. We focus on cellular and structural features of the integrated main organs affected by systemic toxicity (heart, liver and kidneys), assuming passive mixer conditions for drug-blood interactions using the physicochemical characteristics of a model immuno-modulating drug such as sirolimus or rapamycin. Velocity, pressure and concentration fields were characterized to calculate the values of shear stress, vortex formation and mixing degree.

Keywords: Nano-biomedicine
Abstract: Platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) are considered promising nanomaterials for biomedical applications thanks to their formidable catalytic and antioxidant properties. To improve their therapeutic potential and to boost their applicability in nanomedicine, it is fundamental to understand the biological mechanisms that control PtNP interaction with cells and tissues. In this context, an important issue, still open and shared among other nanomaterials, is how internalized PtNPs, that are confined within endo-lysosomal compartments, can exert their activities within the cells. In this framework, here we overviewed the antioxidant and catalytic properties of PtNPs, that make them useful tools for theragnostic applications, and their interactions with cells. In particular, we focused the attention on the endocytic pathways of NPs and their intracellular localization and discussed the formation of inter-organelle contact sites as possible and new mechanisms of communications between cells and NPs. Finally, we contemplated the possibility to modulate the formation of inter-organelle contact sites and on targeting them to increase their potential applications in biomedicine. This brief review offers new insights about the mechanisms of action of PtNPs and sheds light on possible new players in the process of nano-biointeractions at the intracellular level (i.e., the inter-organelle contact sites).

Keywords: Nanofabrication, Nanomaterials

Keywords: Nanofabrication, Nanomaterials
Abstract: Focused electron beam-induced deposition (FEBID) and focused ion beam-induced deposition (FIBID) are cutting-edge nanofabrication techniques that enable the growth of complex three-dimensional (3D) nanostructures by action of the charged particles upon organometallic precursors. The interaction of the focused electron/ion beam with the adsorbed precursor molecules on the substrate surface leads to the dissociation of these surface-bound species resulting in the formation of well-defined deposits. However, during the deposition process, decomposition and incomplete desorption of the organic ligands give rise to contamination in the final deposits, reducing their metal content. To enable applications where deposit composition is critical, it will be necessary to design and synthesize custom precursors for FEBID/FIBID. UHV surface science studies can be used to understand the decomposition mechanism of the organometallic precursors during the electron- or ion-molecule interaction, generating information that can be used in mechanism-based precursor design.

Keywords: Nanofabrication, Nanomaterials

Keywords: Nanofabrication, Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials, Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems

Keywords: Nanofabrication, Nanometrology & Characterization, Nanomaterials

Keywords: Nanofabrication, Nanomaterials, Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems

Keywords: MEMS/NEMS, Nanosensors & Nanoactuatuators, Nano-fluidics and integrated bio-chips

Keywords: MEMS/NEMS, Nanosensors & Nanoactuatuators, Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics

Keywords: MEMS/NEMS, Nanosensors & Nanoactuatuators, Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems

Keywords: MEMS/NEMS, Nanometrology & Characterization, Nanoenergy, Environment & Safety

Keywords: MEMS, NEMS, Nanomaterials, Nanomagnetics

Keywords: MEMS/NEMS
Abstract: Microbolometers, functioning as sensitive detectors, play a crucial role in terahertz imaging systems by converting terahertz radiation into measurable electrical signals. The performance of microbolometers heavily relies on the properties of the absorber material employed. In this study, we numerically investigate the impact of two distinct absorber materials, namely gold and pyrolytic carbon (PyC), on the performance of terahertz microbolometers. Finite element simulations are conducted to analyze the absorber material effect on the thermal transient time constant, that is the limiting factor for the bolometer response time, and the mechanical resonance frequency shift, that is related to the sensitivity of microbolometers. The results will help improving detectors for terahertz imaging systems, which represent powerful tools for non-invasive inspection and characterization in various fields.

Keywords: Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Spintronics, Nanomaterials

Keywords: Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Modeling & Simulation, Nanofabrication

Keywords: Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Nanomaterials, Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics
Abstract: Organic semiconductors are promising for interfacing with biological systems because they are biocompatible, printable and their optical properties tuned. We developed a bio-photoelectrolytic platform based on semiconducting polymer thin films, onto which neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells were cultured immersing both in an aqueous biological medium. It was possible to inhibit cell proliferation by 50% in this cancer cell line by subjecting the platform to a series of light pulses over time. Light stimulation was found to increase the concentration of calcium ions inside the cells by three times. The platform also enabled to measure bio-electrical signals. The bio–photoelectrolytic platform and the effective use of light stimulation may open new avenues for in vitro light control/manipulation of cell behaviour, for the development of future novel non-invasive tools for application in bio-sensing, regenerative medicine and cell-based therapy, and for cancer progression control and therapy.

Keywords: Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials, Nanomaterials
Abstract: Here we report novel resistive memories based on oxides obtained by the chemical conversion of a two-dimensional van-der-Walls semiconductor: hafnium disulfide (HfS₂). We apply a dry oxidation method, carefully controlling process parameters such as pressure, temperature, and oxygen flow. Hafnium oxides are integrated in crossbar structures and resistive switching is studied by applying voltage ramps. We demonstrate unipolar switching achieving a R_ON/R_OFF ratio ~ 10⁴ over 115 cycles, showing the potential of this approach for next-generation memristive technology.

Keywords: Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Nanofabrication
Abstract: In this paper, biomaterial chitosan was explored as a promising switching layer in resistive random access memory device fabricated on flexible polyethylene terephthalate substrate, with silver as top and gold as bottom electrode. These devices exhibited excellent bipolar resistive switching with low SET and RESET voltages. Though a very high retention of over 104 s with high ON/OFF current ratio reaching to ~106 was observed from representative devices, a very high randomness was observed in cycle to cycle variation with order of ON/OFF current ratio varying significantly between 10¹ to 10⁶, which needs further exploration for reliability. Even upon bending up to 7 mm radius, the devices maintained resistive switching behaviour. These results are very interesting considering the immense need of eco-friendly materials and devices for sustainable electronics.

Keywords: Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Nanofabrication, Nanomaterials
Abstract: Gallium oxide has been considered as a promising candidate for non-volatile resistive switching devices. However, it has been challenging for various deposition techniques to grow crystalline gallium oxide on metal substrates acting as bottom electrode in vertically stacked devices. We studied the synthesis of crystalline beta-Ga₂O₃ on Ru/Al₂O₃ substrates using radio-frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering and characterized the electrical properties of Al/Ga₂O₃/Ru devices with respect to the effect of deposition time and temperature. The obtained devices showed more than 70 consistent IV cycles and ON-OFF ratios of up to 10³. With increasing temperature and thickness, enhanced stability was observed in the endurance and retention cycles. The resistive switching (RS) behavior in these devices seems to be related to the formation and rupture of oxygen vacancy filaments.

Keywords: Nanomaterials, Nanosensors & Nanoactuatuators, Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems

Keywords: Nanomaterials, Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials

Keywords: Nanomaterials, Nanosensors & Nanoactuatuators, Commercializing nanotechnology
Abstract: An environmentally friendly temperature sensor has been fabricated by using a low-cost water-processable nanocomposite material based on gelatin and graphene. The device exhibits a temperature sensitivity of about -19 mV/K and can detect ice formation at a few μA. Furthermore, a detailed model describing the charge carrier kinetics within the device under the current-controlled mode has been proposed. The sensor operates in a range between 260 and 310 K and is suitable for environmental monitoring due to its fast response, low power consumption, long-term stability and ease of disposal. A driving circuit has been designed to reduce the voltage drift and offset of the temperature sensor.

Keywords: Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials, Nanomagnetics, Nanomaterials

Keywords: Nanomaterials, Nanofabrication, Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials

Keywords: Nanomaterials, Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Nanofabrication
Abstract: We report the fabrication and the electrical characterization of back-gated field-effect transistors with a WTe2 flake as the conductive channel. The temperature dependence of the electrical properties, and their dependence on the flake thickness, are investigated at a low pressure. Current-voltage and transfer characteristics were measured at temperatures from 78 to 300 K. It is shown that the channel conductance is slightly modulated by the gate, but it is strongly affected by the temperature. Our results are promising for the practical applications of WTe2 based devices to develop a temperature sensor in cryogenic regimes.

Keywords: Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics, Nanofabrication, Nanomaterials

Keywords: Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics

Keywords: Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics, Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials, Nanomaterials

Keywords: Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics, Modeling & Simulation, Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials

Keywords: Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Commercializing nanotechnology
Abstract: Flexible organic transistors fabricated with a bilayer gate dielectric consisting a high-k HfO2 and low-k PVP polymer were comprehensively explored for performance. The fabricated p-channel transistors exhibited -10 V operation with high electrical stability and repeatability. Sensing capabilities of devices were investigated specifically for parameters such as temperature and light. These devices exhibited very good sensing of light with quick dynamic response. Moreover, a very high sensitivity for temperature as low as 1 mV/°C in range of -10 to 70 C was achieved. Our results indicate that these devices can further be explored for excellent sensing capabilities.

Keywords: Modeling & Simulation

Keywords: Nano-biomedicine, Nano-fluidics and integrated bio-chips

Keywords: Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials, Nanosensors & Nanoactuatuators, Nano-biomedicine

Keywords: Nanomaterials, Nanofabrication, Nano-biomedicine

Keywords: Modeling & Simulation, Nano-biomedicine, Nanomaterials

Keywords: Nano-biomedicine

Keywords: Nano-fluidics and integrated bio-chips, MEMS/NEMS

Keywords: Nanofabrication, Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Nanoenergy, Environment & Safety

Keywords: Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials

Keywords: Nanomaterials, Nanoenergy, Environment & Safety
Abstract: In recent years, interest in hydrogels has increased thanks to their mechanical and physical properties, which allows their application in numerous fields as for example drug delivery, self-powered sensors and wastewater treatment. In this work, polyacrylic acid (PAA) hydrogels with N,N’-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) as cross-linker were synthesized using a novel one pot method. To characterize the hydrogel, rheological tests were performed which allowed to determine the average size of the mesh and the rheological properties of the hydrogels prepared under different conditions.

Keywords: Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials, Nanodiamond and nanocarbon structures: materials and devices, Nanometrology & Characterization
Abstract: This study investigates the effect of single-walled carbon nanotube’s (SWCNT) surface functionalization on the dispersion and reinforcing effect in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) thin films. At ultra-low weight percentage loadings (0.05 wt%, 0.5 wt%, and 1 wt%), carboxylic acid functionalized SWCNT (COOH-SWCNT) and silylated SWCNT (Si-SWCNT) are compared as fillers on PDMS matrix. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis is used for chemical characterization of the samples. The optical transparency of the samples is measured using Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometer to quantify the improvement, which is an outcome of the better dispersion of functionalized SWCNT in PDMS. Delamination analysis (DL) is used to quantify the mechanical bond strength and time taken for delamination in composite thin films. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) is used to estimate the stress-strain relationship in the samples under a tensile force ramp. Nanoindentation analysis (NI) is used to estimate the hardness (H) and elastic modulus (E) of the samples for a perpendicular indentation force. From the combined chemical, optical, and mechanical characterizations, the effect of the chemical bond strengths in the sample due to the surface functionalization of SWCNT is correlated with the mechanical bond strengths imparted to the composite films.

Keywords: Nanosensors & Nanoactuatuators, Nanofabrication, Nanomaterials
Abstract: This paper provides silicon nanowire based nanosensors with fabrication techniques that would reduce contamination due to intrinsic properties of silicon nanowires. We provide surface functionalization for explosive analytes such as TNT and RDX analytes. We provide FTIR characterizations of functionalized silicon nanowires to validate surface modification.

Keywords: Nanomaterials, Nanofabrication, Commercializing nanotechnology
Abstract: The disposal of hexafluorosilicic acid {H2SiF6} poses a significant challenge due to its hazardous nature as a by-product of the agricultural industry. With the industry's large-scale production, managing the disposal of the acid is a crucial concern. {H2SiF6} has harmful impacts on both human health and the environment. Additionally, the acid is corrosive to commonly used materials like glass and metals. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN's) have been succesfully produced from hexafluorosilicic acid. In this study we present a process where the {NH4F} solution available post synthesis of MSN's has been used to sythesize calcium fluoride {CaF2} nanoparticles.The obtained {CaF2} nanoparticles were characterized using various analytical techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and EDAX. The XRD pattern confirmed the formation of pure {CaF2} nanoparticles with an average particle size of 10 nm, while SEM images revealed their nearly spherical shape and well-dispersed nature. The findings of this study highlight a sustainable and simple method for the synthesis of {CaF2} nanoparticles with potential applications in various fields, including biomedicine, photonics, and catalysis.

Keywords: Modeling & Simulation
Abstract: Practical needs in technology capability assessment for extremely low-energy neuromorphic computing is addressed via a novel development/analysis concept integrating atomic-level material modeling, statistical simulations of charge transport in a device material stack and verification of the modeling scheme against measurements emulating circuitry operation conditions for applications in specific neural networks (NN). This multi-scale concept - from materials to applications (M2A) - directly links materials to their electrical properties, and the latter to NN algorithms. Such link enables identifying structural features controlling device characteristics and the range of operation conditions delivering performance targets for a given technology implementation. In comparison to widely employed memristor analyses primarily based on TCAD-type methodology with adjustable phenomenological parameters, the proposed approach allows to deliver feedback on favorable material compositions and cell architecture/dimensions to modify memristor fabrication process. Implementation of this technology evaluation approach to carbon nanotube (CNT) memristors enables identifying structural and operation conditions delivering optimal performance ahead of actual circuitry fabrication.

Keywords: Modeling & Simulation, Nano-optics, Nano-photonics & Nano-optoelectronics, Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials
Abstract: Coupled Maxwell-density matrix equations are widely used for the modeling of quantum optoelectronic devices, such as quantum cascade and quantum dot lasers. We discuss extensions of this modeling approach, increasing its versatility and enabling the simulation of recently developed devices. In particular, we address the implementation of spontaneous emission, as required for a realistic simulation of the laser field buildup and the noise characteristics.

Keywords: Modeling & Simulation, Spintronics, Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials

Keywords: Modeling & Simulation, Nanoenergy, Environment & Safety, Nanomaterials

Keywords: Modeling & Simulation, Nanosensors & Nanoactuatuators, Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems
Abstract: Ultra-steep subthreshold slope FBFETs are promising candidates for next-generation memory and sensing devices. The characteristic of a Subthreshold slope less than 10mV/dec enables efficient memory cell design and reduces power consumption during OFF-states, making FBFETs ideal for memory and sensing applications. In this paper, we demonstrate the use of FBFETs for both memory and sensing applications. For sensing, we have used Gouy-Chapman-Stern and site-binding model to calculate the surface potential on the sensing surface of the proposed device due to the protonation and deprotonations based on the pH of the electrolyte. For memory, we will target the memory window due to trapped charges or a single polyoxometalate cluster. We will show that the FBFETs can achieve a larger memory window and a sensing sensitivity crossing the Nernst limit. These results will demonstrate the potential of FBFETs for a wide range of applications.

Keywords: Commercializing nanotechnology, Education in nanotechnology
Abstract: Transistors’ miniaturization has been restless since the very beginning of their invention in 1947. Among their early applications, a fundamental one was as substitutes for vacuum tubes (or valves). In 1965 Gordon Moore enunciated what was to become “Moore’s law”, that is the fact that the number of components that could be crammed into an integrated circuit would double every year. The “law” has slowed down, but it has been running ever since. The end of the validity of Moore’s law has been announced quite a few times, and this explains why IBM invested heavily in superconductors, proclaiming in 1980 the coming ‘Josephson computer revolution’ (a revolution which, maybe, will materialize fifty years later than expected). So far, neither newer (superconductors) nor old (vacuum tubes) technologies could threaten the dominance of semiconductors – miniaturization of these latter being the essential part of the game. The continuous process of miniaturization of semiconductors, though, has come at a cost, and that cost is research and developments (R&D), which is continuously increasing. This is why one can speak of a reversed Moore’s law, namely “Eroom’s law”. The latter “law” points at the growing expenditure on R&D to miniaturize transistors as well as to the growing capital outlays necessary to build production facilities capable of producing the latest 5- and 3-nanometre semiconductors. In this work we refer to a simple model which – given certain assumptions – clarifies up to which point it is worthwhile to spend on R&D in which technology, Eroom’s law being an intrinsic feature when we want to improve a technology at a constant rate.

Keywords: Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Spintronics, Nanomagnetics

Keywords: Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials

Keywords: Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Nanofabrication, Nanomaterials

Keywords: Nanodiamond and nanocarbon structures: materials and devices, Nanomagnetics

Keywords: Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Nanofabrication, Modeling & Simulation
Abstract: Three-Independent-Gate Field-Effect Transistors (TIGFETs) are demonstrated Schottky-barrier-based ambipolar devices, meaning they can be reconfigured to be either n- or p-type post-processing. A novel solution to traditional scaling, successfully fabricated and electrically tested high ON-current silicon-nanowire TIGFET devices are exhibited in this paper for the first time. Previously, these devices were fabricated as FinFETs or from grown nanowires, whereas our top-down process has the benefit of process-based repeatability which allows for ease of circuit design and testing. We varied the gate dielectric and metal stack during fabrication and noticed improvements when using a high-k metal stack previously unused in these devices. We performed Synopsys Sentaurus simulations of the same geometries to determine future processing enhancements. Here, we present a comparison of our fabricated silicon-nanowire TIGFET results and these simulations.

Keywords: Nanoelectronics: Emerging material and device challenges in futuristic systems, Fundamentals and applications of nanotubes, nanowires, quantum dots and other low dimensional materials