| EPSRC Reference: |
GR/R24715/01 |
| Title: |
Analysis of Surfaces & Buried Interfaces Using a Scanning Near Field Optical Microscope |
| Principal Investigator: |
Dunstan, Professor PR |
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| Department: |
Physics |
| Organisation: |
Swansea University |
| Scheme: |
Fast Stream |
| Starts: |
24 May 2001 |
Ends: |
23 May 2003 |
Value (£): |
60,049
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| EPSRC Research Topic Classifications: |
| Materials Characterisation |
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Summary on Grant Application Form |
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The ability to map simultaneously the local variations in electronic, topographic and chemical features on the nano-scale represents a significant advance for the optimisation of material systems. This research programme highlights the use of scanning near field optical microscopy (SNOM) to achieve this goal. The project aims to apply this technique to metal contacts deposited on silicon carbide. This material system is viewed as crucial for the development of the next generation of high-powered solid state devices. The project will progress via the following steps:1). SNOM measurements will concentrate on the optical response of the material as a function of the fabrication method used to produce the contact (i.e. UHV, anneal temperature, chemical cleaning, etc.) Direct comparisons will be made with the variations in topography and optical response. Defects, voids and clusters play a crucial role in the electrical nature of the contact and these inhomogeneities will be investigated.2) The necessary components will be implemented to perform external measurements on the sample whilst simultaneously performing SNOM. In this way the photoresponse of the material will be measured and variations in the electrical properties measured on the nano-scale. Mechanisms will be derived to produce contacts of improved stability and durability.3) The feasibility 4 using the system to characterise other material systems will be investigated, particularly the photoresponse of superconductors.
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Key Findings |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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Potential use in non-academic contexts |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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Impacts |
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| Description |
This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk |
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| Date Materialised |
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Sectors submitted by the Researcher |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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| Project URL: |
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| Further Information: |
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| Organisation Website: |
http://www.swan.ac.uk |