In-situ STM analysis of neuromorphic computing via clusters produced by the matrix assembly cluster source (MACS)

该项目将研究使用沉积在图案化载体上的尺寸可控的纳米颗粒簇来创造新型电子设备。为了沉积集群，将建造和使用一种新的集群生产方法的较小版本--矩阵组装集群源(MACS)，更具体地说，是MiniMACS，与化学方法相比，这是一种环境友好的集群生产方法。我们的安排将允许对生产的样品进行现场研究，并通过与斯旺西的相关项目相联系来实现这一点，从而扩大到集群生产的工业规模的潜力。使用这样的结构，这个项目将研究神经形态计算--计算的替代架构。随机存放的集群网络将通过两个联系人连接，并应用一个场。团簇内原子的电迁移将形成并破坏连接网络的细丝。渗流阈值(随机系统中远程连通性的形成)将被研究。预计将观察到两种阻力状态。目的和目标-在现有的超高真空室内建造MiniMACS集束沉积工具，该真空室将重新用于该项目。开发一种将金属纳米颗粒沉积到基板上的方法。研究在丝状网络中形成的簇阵列在神经形态计算中的潜在应用。研究方法，包括将要调查的工程和物理科学方面的新知识或新技术。扫描隧道显微镜用于为灯丝成像，PVD用于形成电极图案，簇束沉积用于创建簇，四点探头用于分析电学性质/可能用作栅极(关于晶体管)，扫描电子显微镜和原子力显微镜用于初步观察沉积，可能使用透射电子显微镜获得原子分辨率成像，以及使用组装好的迷你Mac来创建和沉积簇。迷你Mac将是独一无二的，使用多探头系统来驱动、干扰和询问丝状网络可能是第一次这样做。簇合物被广泛用作催化剂材料，该项目将为斯旺西由EPSRC资助的更广泛的项目增加知识，以开发商业级无溶剂生产纳米颗粒-EPSRC优先可持续产业。神经形态计算的研究为开发新型电子计算设备-EPSRC优先21世纪产品提供了潜力。

This project will investigate using size-controlled clusters of nano-particles deposited on to patterned supports to create novel electronic devices. In order to deposit the clusters, a smaller version of a novel method of cluster production will be built and used - the Matrix Assembly Cluster Source (MACS), more specifically - the MiniMACS, which is an environmentally friendly method of cluster production when compared to chemical approaches. Our arrangement will allow in-situ study of produced samples, and the potential of scale up to an industrial scale of cluster production by linking in with related projects based at Swansea to achieve this. Using such structures this project will investigate Neuromorphic Computing - alternative architectures for computing. Networks of randomly-deposited clusters will be connected from two contacts, with a field applied. The electro-migration of atoms within clusters will form and break filaments connecting the network. The percolation threshold (the formation of long-range connectivity in random systems) will be investigated. Two resistances states are expected to be observed. Aims and objectives - To construct the MiniMACS cluster deposition tool within an existing ultra high vacuum chamber which will be re-purposed for this project. To develop a process to deposit metal nanoparticles on to substrates. To investigate the potential neuromorphic computing applications of clusters arrays formed in to filament networks. The research methodology, including new knowledge or techniques in engineering and physical sciences that will be investigated. Scanning Tunnelling Microscopy to image the filaments, PVD to pattern electrodes, cluster beam deposition to create clusters, four point probe to analyse electrical properties/potentially use as a gate (regarding transistors), SEM and AFM to initially observe deposition, and potentially TEM to get atomic resolution imaging, and use of the assembled mini-MACS to create and deposit clusters. The mini-MACS will be unique, and the use of a multi-probe system to drive, perturb and interrogate the filament network may be the first time this has been done.Alignment to EPSRC's strategies and research areas. Clusters are widely used as catalyst materials and this project will add knowledge in to Swansea's wider EPSRC-funded projects to develop commercial level solvent-free production of nanoparticles - EPSRC priority Sustainable Industries. The investigation of neuromorphic computing offers the potential to develop novel electronic computing devices - EPSRC priority 21st Century Products.