Engineered thin-film nanomaterials for enhanced sensing

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The continually evolving field of nanoscience and nanotechnology relies on understanding and control of the structure and the properties of material at smaller and smaller size scales. The knowledge developed here today leads to applications of tomorrow which can exploit the extraordinary fine surfaces and structures that can now be produced routinely. This research program uses a specialised technique to produce high aspect ratio (thin and tall) columns of material on the order of tens to hundreds of nanometres in diameter. We can control material, column shape, size, density, and surface area. These structural properties in turn affect optical or electrical properties. The research supported by this grant will study how our specialty materials interact with their environment. Specifically, we aim to use our materials as the basis of advanced chemical sensors. For example, as a long-term vision, we will be able to use our technology to detect and measure biomolecules whose presence and concentration in small blood samples can provide critical medical diagnostic information to a doctor who can then order the appropriate treatment for the patient. By exploiting the excellent, built-up expertise and infrastructure already present at the University of Alberta, this research will foster innovation in Canadian science and technology and provide opportunities for training for promising new researchers in the field of microfabrication and nanotechnology.