Nanoscale Interdisciplinary Research Teams (NIRT): Copolymer Templates - A Self-Assembling Route to High-Density Arrays of Functional Nanostructures

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This Nanoscale Interdisciplinary Research Teams (NIRT) project it to develop robust routes to produce high-density arrays of functional nanoscopic structures using nanoporous templates derived from diblock copolymer thin films. The diblock copolymer films used possess self-assembled cylindrical microdomains oriented normal to the surface of the film, with cylinder densities in excess of 1.0 x 10^12 /in^2. Selective degradation of the minor polymer block and cross-linking of the major block results in a polymer film having a high-density array of nanopores that serves as a template for the fabrication of functional arrays of nanoscopic structures. The project will expand the potential of this simple process by developing methods that give pore diameters ranging from the nanometer to the hundreds of nanometers. The research will advance the use of these templates to produce functional arrays of nanoscopic structures. This includes the use of metal electrodeposition in the template pores to produce ultrahigh-density arrays of magnetic nanowires for magnetic storage applications. The nanopore array can be patterned laterally using electron-beam lithography, to create magnetic nanowires and nanoparticle electron-transport studies. The nanoporous arrays will also be used as electrochemical nanoelectrode arrays, as reactive-ion-etching masks for silicon technology, and to produce glass nanopillars. The project provides several unique educational opportunities including REU, RET, an interdepartmental nanoscience course, biweekly interdisciplinary meetings, and a technology-training program based on interactive digital video. This project integrates efforts from the academic and industrial sectors, with collaborations from national laboratories and international groups.