Research
Our goal is to make novel nano-structures that can enrich our lives. We approach this challenging task by producing new nano-materials, understanding their properties, and using them in new devices.
Materials
Many of the nanostructures we are investigating are composed of carbon, which is an amazing element. It is not only the building block of life but it provides the most numerous and diverse chemical compounds.
A main focus of our work is an atomically thin layer of carbon called graphene. Because it is only one atom thick, it is transparent and possesses ultra-high surface area. Additionally, it is super-strong and extremely conductive.
Devices
Nanostructures' unique properties are very suitable to realize new electronic devices that are superior to existing ones.
We are working on efficient ultrathin solar cells, novel sensors, and new transistors that are better than current devices and can be produced cheaply.
New properties
The fundamental properties of nanostructures depend on their size, a behavior that is not found in traditional materials. We therefore work on understanding these novel properties, what is causing them, and how to use them in novel devices. We employ optical and electron spectroscopy techniques, atomic-scale imaging, and develop new characterization techniques for this purpose.