Molecular-Based Devices and Circuits

摘要

This report results from a contract tasking Tel Aviv University as follows: We suggest a methodology to construct a new hybrid vertical device, suitable for electrical activation and operation of organic molecules. Using a vertical architecture, based on silicon technology, it is possible to construct an area of 'standing' molecules, completely encapsulated between two metal electrodes. The fabrication process flow consists of a patterned gold layer, as a bottom electrode, Si3N4 layer as a dielectric platform, nano-cavities (50nm x 50nm) etched into the Si3N4 layer at the center of the electrode. Subsequently, molecules are self-assembled onto the bottom surface of the nano-cavities. The next step is a selective deposition of gold nanoparticles on the top-side of the molecular layer, acting as the metallic contact. The final step is a delicate deposition and patterning of a palladium top electrode. Using this method we suggest a construction of multi-layer arrangement which could form a molecular-circuit. Recently we have demonstrated the construction and operation of single devices array. An array of several thousands of these devices per single silicon wafer are now routinely prepared in our lab in 50% yield (compared to 5-10% yields afforded by other methods). Current Vs voltage (I/V) measurements of these devices indicate that these devices can be charged and thus can be used for electronic storing applications. In the next stage of the process we will focus on construction of ultra-dense molecular circuits using our proposed vertical architecture.