Bottom-Up Engineering Exotic Quantum Phases in Low Dimensional Nanographenes
Abstract
I. Research Problem and ObjectivesThe deterministic control of quantum electronic states in strongly correlated low-dimensional materials represent a scientific grand challenge. The realization of this disruptive technology could not only reshape the global cycleof energy generation, transport, storage, and conversion, but holds the promise to ring in a new era of low-power high-frequency information processing that scales far beyond the fundamental limits of current semiconductor technology. Our research aims squarely at unveiling and mapping the hidden symmetry rules and emergent topological phenomena that hold the key to the rational bottom-up design, structural isolation, atomically resolved spectroscopic characterization, and ultimately the functional implementation of exotic quantum materials arising from correlated interactions of electrons and spins in the 1D limit.II. Technical ApproachRather than relying on scarce and preciously rare intrinsic materials properties, the development of rational design and modern manufacturing tools can give rise to custom tailored strongly correlated phases in otherwise ordinary and earth abundant materials. This proposal takes a unique, highly interdisciplinary approach that seamlessly integrates the unmatched structural control inherent to Synthetic Chemistry with state-of-the-art atomically resolved ultra-high vacuum (UHV) scanning probe microscopy (SPM) and spectroscopy (SPS) techniques derived from experimental Condensed Matter Physics. Driven by transformative advances in bottom-up graphene nanomaterials synthesis we herein take a bold leap forward. Rather than mirroring existing electronic structures we will break the boundaries of bottom-up carbon nanomaterials design by combining topological zero-mode engineering and symmetry breaking.III. Anticipated Outcome and Impact on DoD CapabilitiesThe scientific and technological advances enabled by the proposed research will overcome critical gatekeepers to the broad implementation of carbon-based nanoelectronics materials technology. The scientific research program addresses DOD visions and future technology requirements related to strongly correlated materials discovery, the design, growth, and exploration ofunusual electronic band structures, unconventional dissipationless transport phenomena, new approaches toward power conversion, optical switching of spin currents, and topological engineering of correlated spin systems. Custom tailored quantum phases will expand our understanding of fundamental principles pertaining to, e.g., correlated charge/spin transport, guide the path to transformative advancements that could become the basis for non-volatile data storage, new schemes for low-power, portable electronic devices, quantum sensors, accelerated data processing systems, and more efficient energy generation, transduction, and conversion technologies. Higher integration density translates into reduced form factor while lower power consumption reduces battery requirements for portable or autonomous systems; in both cases lowering the size and weight of systems. Increased information processing speed and integration density will enable simultaneous multi-sensor data processing that augments situational awareness in future naval operations. Graduate student training through this project supports the ONR goal of promoting education in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) to build a future workforce that secures continued global leadership in technology, manufacturing, and industry sectors relevant to NAVY mission success.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 08, 2024
- Source ID
- N000142412134
Entities
People
- Felix Fischer
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of California Regents