Expedited Award for Novel Research: New Processes for Producing Cluster Based Materials

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A one year feasibility study is proposed to explore: (1) the use of Langmuir-Blodgett technology for production of monolayer and lamellar films of metal clusters and (2) A cluster based process for producing high quality diamond films. These are described as follows: Research Plan 1: The initial objective of the study is to measure surface versus surface area relationships for gold clusters bound to a variety of surfactant molecules. A series of organic molecules consisting of straight chain alkanes with various functional groups (ethylene, hydroxyl, amine, and carboxyl) attached at each end are tested as surfactants. Once the ability to assemble cluster monolayers at the air/water interface is established, the transfer of these films to solid substrates and the structure of the resulting films will be studied. Both TEM and STEM are used to explore the uniformity of the cluster films. Finally both optical and electrical measurements will be carried out on the films. Research Plan 2: The second project has the same potential for significant technological and economic impact as the first but is more uncertain as to its outcome. The Multiple Expansion Cluster Source (MECS) concept, which has proven so successful in the assembly of nanometer size clusters of metal atoms, is used for controlled polymerization. The reaction to be studied is the formation of polyacetylene molecules suspended as aerosol particles in an inert gas carrier. If this research is successful, it will provide a method for producing polyacetylene with controlled molecular weight and a narrow molecular weight distribution. The ultimate goal of the project, however, is proof of feasibility of production of carbon clusters having ideal sp3 or diamond-like bonding and the deposition these clusters to form high quality films.