INNATE

Integrated Nanocrystal Tunnelling for Molecular Electronics

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 Obiettivo del progetto (Objective)

'The INNATE project focuses on noble metal nanocrystals in the quantum confinement size range as active elements in molecular electronic circuits. Supported by a successful proof-of-concept experiment, multistate switch and transistor function for these systems will be demonstrated, unparalleled in conventional electronics. This novel electronic function will be integrated with that of tailored redox molecules both in a vertical Scanning Probe Microscopy configuration and in a nanogap electrode set-up to form nanoelectronic circuits, thus bridging top-down and bottom-up approaches. Our strategy focuses on electrolyte gating at electrified solid/liquid interfaces, which can address physical gates down to 1 nm by achieving strong electronic coupling, and allows the target “device” to function under ambient conditions. In addition to its ambitious technical goals, the INNATE project will substantially contribute to prospects of professional maturity and independence of the applicant by adding crucial scientific competencies in the highly interdisciplinary area of nanoscale electrochemistry and molecular electronics, thus developing his research niche of organic–inorganic hybrid nanostructures towards a high-level molecular understanding of structure–functionality–reactivity relations. Research training objectives focus on advanced scanning probe and nanogap electrode techniques, together with complementary training in research management, high-level dissemination and networking activities, including links to industry. Fully integrated in the European Research Area, the project will significantly enhance visibility and attractiveness of European science and technology.'

Descrizione progetto (Article)

The 'Integrated nanocrystal tunnelling for molecular electronics' (Innate) project studied the properties and capabilities of quantum-size metal nanocrystals as active elements in molecular electronic circuits. Researchers sought to demonstrate their novel electronic functionality for such systems, by focusing on electrolyte gating at electrified solid/liquid interfaces. Following this, the EU-funded team set out to integrate functionality for configuration of a vertical scanning probe microscopy and nanogap electrode setup for nanoelectronic circuit formation.

Innate project partners focused on the electrochemical and electronic behaviour of small monolayer-protected clusters (MPCs) of gold. Achievements included a first-time demonstration that well-behaved quantised charging of gold MPCs can be realised in an air- and water-stable room temperature ionic liquid. This is important from a technological point of view: ionic liquids offer near-zero vapour pressure and promising thermal and electrochemical stability.

Study of the quantised cluster charging process revealed that electrolyte selection is essential for optimal design of an electrochemical device. Other project experiments indicated the value in taking an electrostatic immobilisation approach for achieving electrostatically stabilised nanocrystals. This is significant for applications in electroanalysis and catalysis.

Overall, the Innate project demonstrated the application potential of nanocrystal-mediated tunnelling for molecular electronics. Building on these achievements can enhance electrochemical methodologies in related areas of research and have great socioeconomic impact in the future.