Good Vibrations Probe Innards of Molecular Electronic Junctions

User rating: 4.5 / 5 after 18 vote(s)

NIST researchers determined that the organic molecules in the middle of this simple silicon-based molecular sandwich pass electric current through these junctions by carefully measuring the minute changes in molecular vibrations. Credit: NIST
NIST researchers determined that the organic molecules in the middle of this simple silicon-based molecular “sandwich” pass electric current through these junctions by carefully measuring the minute changes in molecular vibrations. Credit: NIST

Using an unusual spectroscopic technique, researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology have provided the most convincing evidence yet that current is flowing through a simple silicon-based molecular “sandwich,” which is the most basic structure of molecular electronics. The work is an important step toward realizing the dream of organic molecule-based electronics that could enable much denser, cheaper computer memories and other replacements of traditional electronic devices.


Full story »
All News summaries from Nanotechnology news
All News summaries for March 05, 2008

Researchers demonstrate a flexible, 1-step assembly of nanoscale structures

Jul 25, 2008 | User rating: not rated yet
Scientists at the University of Pennsylvania have created a one-step, repeatable method for the production of functional nanoscale patterns or motifs with adjustable features, size and shape using a single master "plate."

Nanoparticles Detect Telomerase Activity

Jul 24, 2008 | User rating: not rated yet
Telomerase, an enzyme that prevents chromosomes from shortening when they divide, is widely suspected of playing a key role in making cancer cells immortal. Though researchers have developed a variety of methods for measuring ...

Material may help autos turn heat into electricity

Jul 24, 2008 | User rating: not rated yet
Researchers have invented a new material that will make cars even more efficient, by converting heat wasted through engine exhaust into electricity. In the current issue of the journal Science, they describe a material ...

'Nanonet' circuits closer to making flexible electronics reality

Jul 23, 2008 | User rating: not rated yet
Researchers have overcome a major obstacle in producing transistors from networks of carbon nanotubes, a technology that could make it possible to print circuits on plastic sheets for applications including ...

Nanoparticle Research Points to Energy Savings

Jul 23, 2008 | User rating: not rated yet
(PhysOrg.com) -- Adding just the right dash of nanoparticles to standard mixes of lubricants and refrigerants could yield the equivalent of an energy-saving chill pill for factories, hospitals, ships, and ...
Goto Archive PhysOrg Forum Goto Archive Video Goto Archive Editorials Goto Archive Free Magazines Goto Archive Newsletter

News Archive