Basic Science of Radiation Effects in Ferroelectric Multi-Functional MEMS/NEMS
Abstract
Ferroelectric materials offer large dielectric, piezoelectric, and pyroelectric response, which can be simultaneously leveraged to create multifunctional devices and enable miniaturization in various applications. Among such devices are concepts for autonomous, millimeter-scale robotics where the ferroelectric components fulfill multiple tasks; these include environmental energy harvesting, logic elements, acoustic and optical sensors and transducers, and precision positioners and locomotion units, all performed by the ferroelectric material. Such units are of particular interest for performing duties in hostile environments that are either difficult to reach or otherwise dangerous for humans. Space is a quintessential example of one such environment, along with facilities that use or process radioisotopes (e.g., nuclear power plants). This projects aims to understand the effects of radiation exposure on the multifunctional properties of ferroelectric oxides, in order to evaluate device performance and functionality in harsh environments, and subsequently create radiation-tolerant materials and devices. The propose work is performed on material stacks and devices, exposed to varying levels and types of radiation, characterized at multiple length-scales before and after irradiation. Our approaches aims to identify radiation-induced changes at the atomistic to macroscopic level resulting in eventual changes in the functional response. The proposed work will also pursue approaches resulting in mitigation or alternatively healing of radiation-damage in the material stack and functional devices.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- May 26, 2016
- Source ID
- HDTRA11510035
Entities
People
- Nazanin Bassirigharb
Organizations
- Defense Threat Reduction Agency
- Georgia Tech