In new research, scientists pick up single nanowires from the growing substrate and place them on nearly any platform with sub-micron accuracy. OxfordMaterials
Sep 30 2022Reviewed by Megan Craig, M.Sc. A group of scientists from Oxford University’s Department of Materials headed by Harish Bhaskaran, Professor of Applied Nanomaterials, present a novel strategy of picking up single nanowires from the growing substrate and placing them on nearly any platform with sub-micron accuracy. This breakthrough could expedite the creation of ever smaller and more sophisticated computer chips.
The nanowires that were deposited had strong adhesive properties, staying in place even after the device was submerged in liquid. The scientists were also able to install nanowires on delicate substrates like ultra-thin 50 nanometer membranes, illustrating the stamping technique’s sensitivity and adaptability.
Their microscopic size, in particular, may enable the development of smaller transistors and miniaturized computer chips. However, one significant obstacle to realizing nanowires’ complete potential has been their inability to be precisely positioned within devices.