Fundamental studies of graphene sensing properties by single molecule adsorption

The extraordinary properties of graphene, a single sheet of carbon atoms (e.g. monodimensional structure, high conductivity, low-noise characteristics) are expected to be

exploited in the next generation of electronic devices and gas sensors. These applications require a perfect control of the growth of graphene layers, and an optimum integration

with the processes and materials used in the semiconductor industry.

Hypothesis/Aims
This research proposal is aimed at investigating the gas sensing characteristics of graphene grown on SiCby the use of Scanning Tunneling Microscopy and Spectroscopy in Ultra

High Vacuum. The graphene peculiar characteristics make this material capable to achieve the single atom detection limit at room temperature.
Specific aims of the project
• Understand the effect of gas adsorption to the graphene substrate
• Investigate the relationship between the adsorption of a single molecule and the type and concentration of target gas,
• Develop a method to characterise the single molecule adsorption by using the I/V characteristics of the graphene device.
The project will provide an advanced understanding of the graphene gas sensing properties, with a potential breakthrough in the creation of new and inexpensive sensors.

Approaches
Graphene will be obtained by heating crystalline SiC at high temperature (1200-1350 C) in Ultra High Vacuum. Pre-Patterning of the substrate by He+ Focused Ion Beam will provide

a way to create and test new sensor devices directly in Ultra High Vacuum. Exposure of graphene sensors to controlled amount of gas molecules in Ultra High Vacuum will provide

useful information on the variation of the electronic properties as a function of gas adsorption.
Two innovative ideas will be implemented to verify the fundamental properties of this material:
Use of the Ultra High Vacuum system with Scanning Tunnelling Microscope at QUT to:
o grow graphene on SiC in UHV
o achieve atomic resolution images on gas adsorbates on graphene.
Use of the He+ Focused Ion Beam at QUT to
o pattern SiC in order to obtain small areas graphene sensors from UHV annealing
o contact the graphene flakes in order to measure the I/V characteristics of the single flake under controlled exposition to molecular gases.
The PhD student will work in a well-established, highly collaborative research group environment, using the most advanced instrumentation available at CARF, providing the

opportunity for an effective and rich learning experience.

 

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