Overview
Our research focuses on nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS) from atomic membranes, specifically the nanomechanical properties of suspended graphene sheets. We fabricate mechanical resonators with fundamental resonant frequencies in the MHz range and thicknesses down to a single layer of atoms. The high Young's modulus (E ~ 1 TPa), extremely low mass (single layer of atoms), and large surface area make these resonators ideally suited for use as mass, force, and charge sensors.
In addition to work on graphene resonators, we also investigate the properties of graphene membranes. These membranes act as barriers for gases and liquids and represent the thinnest membrane possible (one layer of atoms) with the smallest potential pore sizes attainable (single atomic vacancies), and unprecedented mechanical stability.
We are an interdisciplinary group interested in collaborations with other departments at the University of Colorado as well as with NIST, JILA, and NREL.
Sponsors:
Page Last Updated: 01/31/13 (photograph: copyright Joe Harrison, JH Photography Inc)