Terahertz scanning tunneling microscope for novel ultrafast imaging concepts
Abstract
This project describes a new terahertz scanning tunneling microscopy (THz-STM) system that will be used to enhance efforts related to DoD research interests. The central target will be atomically precise graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) grown on surfaces from molecular precursors, which are the emphasis of the ONR Nanoscale Computing and Devices Program. The Cocker groups efforts to establish GNRs as a new platform for optoelectronics will be substantially enhanced by the new THz-STM system, which will complement a currently operational THz-STM system in the lab where GNR experiments are already taking place. The new system will allow a broader bandwidthof GNR species to be studied and also enable the development of novel ultrafast imaging concepts.The new THz-STM will be utilized to test, develop, and optimize new techniques without halting ongoing GNR experiments. Once established, the new techniques will in turn be applied to GNRs to extract more information about their local dynamics and optoelectronic properties. Potential technical innovations include extension of the THz-STM system to higher frequency and faster time resolution, the combination of THz-STM with atomically resolved atomic force microscopy, the development of atomically resolved near-field microscopy, and the introduction of magnetic field control. Further proposals to the DoD aim to expand THz-STM studies of GNR optoelectronics to GNR-substrate interactions and GNR-based qubits. The development of new ultrafast imaging modalities would benefit both of these efforts as well as the community as a whole. In addition to GNR studies, the new THz-STM would also benefit Weyl materials, whichare of interest to the ARO Electronics Division, by enabling ultrabroadband ultrafast studies of their surfaces with atomic resolution. Finally, the new THz-STM will substantially increase training opportunities for graduate students by doubling the available time for hands-on THz-STM experience.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jun 09, 2021
- Source ID
- N000142112636
Entities
People
- Tyler L. Cocker
Organizations
- Michigan State University
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy