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 doubly clamped beams and cantilevers, we also investigate the properties of resonating drumheads, which consist of graphene sealed nanochambers containing a small volume of trapped gas. These experiments allow us to probe the membrane properties of single atomic layers. 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.
Page Last Updated:
12/14/08