Enhanced Optical, Electrical, and Magnetic measurement capabilities for Materials and Device Studies in Research and Education
Abstract
Overview: We propose the acquisition of a set of instruments to augment our capabilities for electrical and magnetic characterization of materials properties and devices. The proposed instruments will be integrated into a recently upgraded Physical Properties Measurements System (PPMS) significantly expanding our research capabilities and usership for research and education. Our new system is capable for electric and magnetic measurements at temperatures from 400 K down to 2 K and in magnetic fields up to 9 T. The proposed set of instruments will allow for AC electrical measurement, not currently available, optical excitation of the sample while measuring the conductivity at variable temperatures and magnetic fields, and AC magnetization measurements. It will also expand the temperature range for DC and AC electrical and magnetization measurements to milli-Kelvin temperatures. This acquisition removes current research barriers and complements extensive materials growth and device fabrication facilities for conducting research supported by federal, state, and industry funding. This support currently includes three Department of Defense awards. The proposed acquisition supports current and future initiatives in materials research at Texas State University, a Hispanic serving institution, broadening the range base of student participation in research and education. It will be a major resource in our Analysis Research Service Center, a fee-based user facility, thereby ensuring broad access by over 150 active users. Research: The requested instrument will support a wide array of research projects, including photovoltaic materials: organohalide lead perovskite and CdTe solar cells; low-dimensional materials such as ultrawide bandgap oxide heterojunctions, 2D metal oxides for electrochemical energy conversion, and 2D electron gases at semiconductor-oxide interfaces, quantum dots, semiconductor nanowires, and carbon nanotubes; nanomaterials such as lightweight polymer composites and magneto-polymers for diverse DoD applications including aerospace and defense. The proposed system will have a direct impact on these and future research projects and will enhance our participation in research and education activities that are critical to DoD. Education: The requested instrumentation will be used in materials research training and advanced course instruction at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Combined in-class and hands-on training will be conducted in several courses and laboratory units. We describe introduction to the instrumentation through advanced laboratory and microfabrication courses in chemistry, physics, and engineering, and PhD level instruction in materials and nanofabrication. The status of Texas State as a Hispanic Serving Institution ensures participation of underrepresented minorities. The proposed acquisition will enhance student participation in research and increase the number of graduates, including underrepresented minorities, in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The educational and outreach activities described here benefit society and the nation, engaging minorities in STEM fields and fostering studentsÕ understanding of scientific methodology and thinking.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jun 25, 2021
- Source ID
- W911NF2110253
Entities
People
- Nikoleta Theodoropoulou
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- Office of the Secretary of Defense
- Texas State University