Synthesis, assembly and applications of semiconductor nanomembranes

Abstract

Research in electronic nanomaterials, historically dominated by studies of nanocrystals/fullerenes and nanowires/nanotubes, now incorporates a growing focus on sheets with nanoscale thicknesses, referred to as nanomembranes. Such materials have practical appeal because their two-dimensional geometries facilitate integration into devices, with realistic pathways to manufacturing. Recent advances in synthesis provide access to nanomembranes with extraordinary properties in a variety of configurations, some of which exploit quantum and other size-dependent effects. This progress, together with emerging methods for deterministic assembly, leads to compelling opportunities for research, from basic studies of two-dimensional physics to the development of applications of heterogeneous electronics.

High-density waveguide superlattices with low crosstalk

“…Note that the width difference has no significant impact on the OPA performance and the associated phase-shift difference can be readily compensated (see detailed discussion in Supplementary Note 4). Extension to twodimensional OPA is also possible with the help of membrane transfer and stacking technology 42 .…”

Conformable amplified lead zirconate titanate sensors with enhanced piezoelectric response for cutaneous pressure monitoring

“…R esearch over the last decade has established inorganic nanoparticles [1][2][3] , nanowires [4][5][6] and nanomembranes 7 as materials for high-quality electronic devices on unusual types of substrates, including plastic foils and rubber sheets 8 . A key opportunity and a realm ripe for further development and growth follows from an ability to integrate such technologies with the soft, curved contours of the human body 9 .…”

Replication of flexible polymer membranes with geometry-controllable nano-apertures via a hierarchical mould-based dewetting

“…F ree-standing nano-membranes have been fabricated from various materials, such as Si-based inorganics [1][2][3][4][5][6] , thin metal foils 7,8 and other types of nano-materials [9][10][11][12][13][14] , for use in a wide range of applications including shadow masking 3,4 , molecular separation 5,6,15 , plasmonics 4,7 , energy devices [16][17][18] and bio-inspired microfluidic devices 19,20 . In general, a series of standard semiconductor processes and/or specific materials 7,21 with high mechanical rigidity have been required to maintain the membrane's shape firmly without mechanical fracture or tear against external forces that arise during the handling process.…”