Rolled-up Nanomembranes Research Articles

Measurement of residual elastic strain in rolled-up amorphous nanomembranes using nanobeam electron diffraction

Amorphous nanomembranes play a crucial role in flexible electronics due to their ability to create intricate 3D structures through strain engineering. To better understand the formation of these structures, accurately mapping the local elastic strain distribution is essential. In this study, we conducted position-sensitive nanobeam electron diffraction investigations on various rolled-up amorphous nanomembranes. By analyzing the diffraction rings obtained from different locations on the amorphous samples, we extracted anisotropic structure information in reciprocal space and determined the local strain distributions in real space. Our analysis revealed that particle-assisted dry-released samples exhibited higher strain values than pure amorphous samples. This suggests that nanoparticles introduce additional strain through dewetting effects, thereby facilitating the formation of self-rolling 3D structures.

Electrical Conductivity Boost: In Situ Polypyrrole Polymerization in Monolithically Integrated Surface-Supported Metal-Organic Framework Templates.

Recent progress in synthesizing and integrating surface-supported metal-organic frameworks (SURMOFs) has highlighted their potential in developing hybrid electronic devices with exceptional mechanical flexibility, film processability, and cost-effectiveness. However, the low electrical conductivity of SURMOFs has limited their use in devices. To address this, researchers have utilized the porosity of SURMOFs to enhance electrical conductivity by incorporating conductive materials. This study introduces a method to improve the electrical conductivity of HKUST-1 templates by in situ polymerization of conductive polypyrrole (PPy) chains within the SURMOF pores (named as PPy@HKUST-1). Nanomembrane-origami technology is employed for integration, allowing a rolled-up metallic nanomembrane to contact the HKUST-1 films without causing damage. After a 24 h loading period, the electrical conductivity at room temperature reaches approximately 5.10-6 S m-1 . The nanomembrane-based contact enables reliable electrical characterization even at low temperatures. Key parameters of PPy@HKUST-1 films, such as trap barrier height, dielectric constant, and tunneling barrier height, are determined using established conduction mechanisms. These findings represent a significant advancement in real-time control of SURMOF conductivity, opening pathways for innovative electronic-optoelectronic device development. This study demonstrates the potential of SURMOFs to revolutionize hybrid electronic devices by enhancing electrical conductivity through intelligent integration strategies.

Pushing On-Chip Photosensitivity Forward Using Edge-Driven Vertical Organic Phototransistors

Developing high-performance photosensors using prototype device architectures is essential to pushing forward developing and advancing next-generation optoelectronic applications. This work reports an organic phototransistor (OPT) with an ultra-short conducting channel (tens of nanometers) and outstanding photoelectric conversion efficiency. The OPT is based on a vertical organic field-effect transistor (VOFET) architecture, which utilizes a rolled-up metallic nanomembrane (NM) as the drain electrode and a photolithographically patterned (rectangular-shaped) perforated source electrode. These features expand the concept of conventional VOFETs as the former enables the incorporation of ultra-thin active layers and allows reliable control over gate-induced modulation of channel current. Using the engineering as abovementioned strategies, we focused on obtaining an improved device performance, studying their fundamental operating principle, and further investigating their application as photosensors. The optimized devices exhibited low operating voltages (<5 V) and enhanced on/off current ratio (∼105). The VOFET photoresponse was characterized by measuring the electrical characteristics in the dark and under illumination using three different monochromatic light colors. Under blue light, our devices demonstrated impressive photosensitivity (Pmax ≈ 105) and fast photoelectric conversion (steep light-induced threshold voltage shift), demonstrating that the rolled-up NM OPT shows excellent potential as a highly sensitive photodetector with low power consumption.

Transient photocapacitance spectroscopy on Au/TiO2 Schottky diodes with rolled-up nanomembrane electrodes

Rolled-up nanomembrane electrodes are used to prepare optically transparent Au/TiO2 Schottky diodes suitable for deep level transient photocapacitance spectroscopy. It is demonstrated that both the binding energy and the capture cross section of the oxygen vacancy can be extracted from the photocapacitance transients using a rate equation model. The values are consistent with those obtained from conventional deep level transient spectroscopy, taken from the same sample. Furthermore, information about the capture process can be extracted.

Electronic materials with nanoscale curved geometries

As the dimensions of a material shrink from an extended bulk solid to a nanoscale structure, size and quantum confinement effects become dominant, altering the properties of the material. Materials with nanoscale curved geometries, such as rolled-up nanomembranes and zigzag-shaped nanowires, have recently been found to exhibit a number of intriguing electronic and magnetic properties due to shape-driven modifications of charge motion or confinement effects. Local strain generated by curvature can also lead to changes in material properties due to electromechanical coupling. Here we review the development of electronic materials with nanoscale curved geometries. We examine the origin of shape-, confinement- and strain-induced effects and explore how to exploit these in electronic, spintronic and superconducting devices. We also consider the methods required to synthesize and characterize curvilinear nanostructures, and highlight key areas for the future development of curved electronics.

Tubular/helical architecture construction based on rolled-up AlN nanomembranes and resonance as optical microcavity

Aluminum nitride (AlN) has attracted a great amount of interest due to the fact that these group III–V semiconductors present direct band gap behavior and are compatible with current micro-electro-mechanical systems. In this work, three dimensional (3D) AlN architectures including tubes and helices were constructed by rolling up AlN nanomembranes grown on a silicon-on-insulator wafer via magnetron sputtering. The properties of the AlN membrane were characterized through transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The thickness of AlN nanomembranes could be tuned via the RIE thinning method, and thus micro-tubes with different diameters were fabricated. The intrinsic strain in AlN membranes was investigated via micro-Raman spectroscopy, which agrees well with theory prediction. Whispering gallery mode was observed in AlN tubular optical microcavity in photoluminescence spectrum. A postprocess involving atomic layer deposition and R6G immersion were employed on as-fabricated AlN tubes to promote the Q-factor. The AlN tubular micro-resonators could offer a novel design route for Si-based integrated light sources. In addition, the rolled-up technology paves a new way for AlN 3D structure fabrication, which is promising for AlN application in MEMS and photonics fields.

Edge-driven nanomembrane-based vertical organic transistors showing a multi-sensing capability

The effective utilization of vertical organic transistors in high current density applications demands further reduction of channel length (given by the thickness of the organic semiconducting layer and typically reported in the 100 nm range) along with the optimization of the source electrode structure. Here we present a viable solution by applying rolled-up metallic nanomembranes as the drain-electrode (which enables the incorporation of few nanometer-thick semiconductor layers) and by lithographically patterning the source-electrode. Our vertical organic transistors operate at ultra-low voltages and demonstrate high current densities (~0.5 A cm−2) that are found to depend directly on the number of source edges, provided the source perforation gap is wider than 250 nm. We anticipate that further optimization of device structure can yield higher current densities (~10 A cm−2). The use of rolled-up drain-electrode also enables sensing of humidity and light which highlights the potential of these devices to advance next-generation sensing technologies.

Energy band modulation of GaAs/Al0.26Ga0.74As quantum well in 3D self-assembled nanomembranes

In this study, we investigate the modulation of energy band in 3D self-assembled nanomembranes containing GaAs/Al0.26Ga0.74As quantum wells (QWs). Photoluminescence (PL) characterizations demonstrate that the self-assembled structures have different optical transition properties and the modulation of the energy band is thus realized. Detailed spectral analyses disclose that the small strain change in structures with different curvatures cannot cause remarkable change in energy bands in Al0.26Ga0.74As layer. On the other hand, the optical transitions of GaAs QW layer is influenced by the strain evolution in term of light emission intensity. We also find the first order Stark effect in rolled-up nanomembrane with diameter of 150 μm, which is closely connected with the coupling effect between the deformation potential and the piezoelectric potential. Our work may pave a way for the fabrication of high performance rolled-QW infrared photo-detectors.

Rolled-up single-layered vanadium oxide nanomembranes for microactuators with tunable active temperature

Multilayer vanadium dioxide (VO2) actuators are a widespread concern as these micro/nano-actuators present a fast and efficient dynamic response when VO2 occurs in metal–insulator transition (MIT) at 68 °C. By tuning the O2 flow rate during oxide deposition and rolled-up nanotechnology, a microactuator based on a single-layered vanadium oxide nanomembrane with vertical component gradient is fabricated. Upward bending of the nanomembrane is driven by the release of the compressive strain gradient which is revealed through the difference in Raman shift of the vibration mode. Combining strain engineering, the initial curvature of microactuators is tuned in a wide range by the thickness of the nanomembranes. The actuation behavior from low curvature to high final curvature across the MIT is observed which depends on the nanomembrane thickness. Initial compressive strain distribution of the rolled-up nanomembrane decreases the MIT temperature simultaneously. Thus, taking advantage of the tunable MIT and reversible shape transformation, micro/nano-actuators with tunable triggering temperature, controllable initial curvature and large-displacement actuation are fabricated for curvature engineering in micromechanical systems.

Three-Dimensional Microtubular Devices for Lab-on-a-Chip Sensing Applications.

The rapid advance of micro-/nanofabrication technologies opens up new opportunities for miniaturized sensing devices based on novel three-dimensional (3D) architectures. Notably, microtubular geometry exhibits natural advantages for sensing applications due to its unique properties including the hollow sensing channel, high surface-volume ratio, well-controlled shape parameters and compatibility to on-chip integration. Here the state-of-the-art sensing techniques based on microtubular devices are reviewed. The developed microtubular sensors cover microcapillaries, rolled-up nanomembranes, chemically synthesized tubular arrays, and photoresist-based tubular structures via 3D printing. Various types of microtubular sensors working in optical, electrical, and magnetic principles exhibit an extremely broad scope of sensing targets including liquids, biomolecules, micrometer-sized/nanosized objects, and gases. Moreover, they have also been applied for the detection of mechanical, acoustic, and magnetic fields as well as fluorescence signals in labeling-based analyses. At last, a comprehensive outlook of future research on microtubular sensors is discussed on pushing the detection limit, extending the functionality, and taking a step forward to a compact and integrable core module in a lab-on-a-chip analytical system for understanding fundamental biological events or performing accurate point-of-care diagnostics.

Graphene-Activated Optoplasmonic Nanomembrane Cavities for Photodegradation Detection.

Graphene, with its excellent chemical stability, biocompatibility, and capability of electric field enhancement, has a great potential in optical and optoelectronic applications with superior performances by integrating with conventional optical and plasmonic devices. Here, we design and demonstrate graphene-activated optoplasmonic cavities based on rolled-up nanomembranes, which are employed for in situ monitoring the photodegradation dynamics of organic dye molecules on the molecular level in real time. The presence of the graphene layer significantly enhances the electric field of hybrid optoplasmonic modes at the cavity surface, enabling a highly sensitive surface detection. The degradation of rhodamine 6G molecules on the graphene-activated sensor surface is triggered by localized laser irradiation and monitored by measuring the optical resonance shift. Our demonstration paves the way for real-time, high-precision analysis of photodegradation by resonance-based optical sensors, which promises the comprehensive understanding of degradation mechanism and exploration of effective photocatalysts.

Magnetization reversal and local switching fields of ferromagnetic Co/Pd microtubes with radial magnetization

Three-dimensional nanomagnetism is a rapidly growing field of research covering both noncollinear spin textures and curved magnetic geometries including microtubular structures. We spatially resolve the field-induced magnetization reversal of free-standing ferromagnetic microtubes utilizing multifrequency magnetic force microscopy (MFM). The microtubes are composed of Co/Pd multilayer films with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy that translates to an anisotropy with radial easy axis upon rolling-up. Simultaneously mapping the topography and the perpendicular magnetostatic force derivative, the relation between surface angle and local magnetization configuration is evaluated for a large number of locations with slopes exceeding 45 degrees. The angle-dependence of the switching field is concurrent with the Kondorsky model, i.e., the rolled-up nanomembrane behaves like a planar magnetic film with perpendicular anisotropy and a pinning dominated magnetization reversal. Additionally, we discuss methodological challenges when detecting magnetostatic force derivatives near steep surfaces.

Curved Nanomembrane-Based Concentric Ring Cavities for Supermode Hybridization

We report the mode interactions and resonant hybridization in nanomembrane-formed concentric dual ring cavities supporting whispering gallery mode resonances. Utilizing a rolled-up nanomembrane with subwavelength thickness as an interlayer, dual concentric microring cavities are formed by coating high-index nanomembranes on the inner and outer surfaces of the rolled-up dielectric nanomembrane. In such a hybrid cavity system, the conventional fundamental mode resonating along a single ring orbit splits into symmetric and antisymmetric modes confined by concentric dual ring orbits. Detuning of the coupled supermodes is realized by spatially resolved measurements along the cavity axial direction. A spectral anticrossing feature is observed as a clear evidence of strong coupling. Upon strong coupling, the resonant orbits of symmetric and antisymmetric modes cross over each other in the form of superwaves oscillating between the concentric rings with opposite phase. Notably, the present system provides high flexibilities in controlling the coupling strength by varying the thickness of the spacer layer and thus enables switching between strong and weak coupling regimes. Our work offers a compact and robust scheme using curved nanomembranes to realize novel cavity mode interactions for both fundamental and applied studies.

Low-Voltage, Flexible, and Self-Encapsulated Ultracompact Organic Thin-Film Transistors Based on Nanomembranes.

Organic thin-film transistors (OTFTs) are an ever-growing subject of research, powering recent technologies such as flexible and wearable electronics. Currently, many studies are being carried out to push forward the state-of-the-art OTFT technology to achieve characteristics that include high carrier mobility, low power consumption, flexibility, and the ability to operate under harsh conditions. Here, we tackle this task by proposing a novel OTFT architecture exploring the so-called rolled-up nanomembrane technology to fabricate low-voltage (<2 V), ultracompact OTFTs. As the OTFT gate electrode, we use strained nanomembranes, which allows all transistor components to be rolled-up and confined into a tubular-shaped tridimensional device structure with reduced footprint (ca. 90% of their planar counterpart), without any lossof electrical performance. Such an innovative architecture endows the OTFTs high mechanical flexibility (bending radius of <30 μm) and robustness-the devices can be reversibly deformed, withstanding more than 500 radial compression/decompression cycles. Additionally, the tubular device design possesses an inherent self-encapsulation characteristic that protects the OTFT active region from degradation by UV-light and hazardous vapors. The reported strategy is also shown to be compatible with different organic semiconductor materials. All of these characteristics contribute to further extending the potentialities of OTFTs, mainly toward rugged electronics.

Stimuli-responsive and on-chip nanomembrane micro-rolls for enhanced macroscopic visual hydrogen detection.

Nanomembrane rolling offers advanced three-dimensional (3D) mesostructures in electronics, optics, and biomedical applications. We demonstrate a high-density and on-chip array of rolled-up nanomembrane actuators with stimuli-responsive function based on the volume expansion of palladium in hydrogen milieu. The uniform stimuli-responsive behavior of high-density nanomembrane rolls leads to huge macroscopic visual detection with more than 50% transmittance change under optimization of micropattern design. The reversible shape changing between rolled and flat (unrolled) statuses can be well explained on the basis of the elastic mechanical model. The strain change in the palladium layer during hydrogen absorption and desorption produces a marked change in the diameter of nanomembrane rolls. We found that a functional palladium layer established an external compressive strain after hydrogen stimuli and thus also reduced the rolls' diameters. The large area of the nanomembrane roll array performs excellent nonelectrical hydrogen detection, with response and recovery speeds within seconds. Our work suggests a new strategy to integrate high-density 3D mesoscale architectures into functional devices and systems.

External Strain Enabled Post-Modification of Nanomembrane-Based Optical Microtube Cavities

Optical microtube cavities formed by self-rolling of pre-strained nanomembranes feature unique optical resonance properties for both fundamental and applied research. A post-fabrication treatment of the microcavities made of rolled-up nanomembranes is attractive in order to better manipulate and control the optical modes therein. Here, we report a new approach of modifying the resonant modes by applying external strain using a stretchable polymer substrate. The properties of both azimuthal and higher order axial modes are systematically investigated by varying external strain along the tube axial direction. The post-treatment process leads to a spectral redshift and improvement of quality factors, which is attributed to a modification of tube shape and interlayer compactness. For tubes with axial confinement, the measurements suggest that both the eigenenergies and mode spatial distributions of optical axial modes get significantly modified after applying the external strain. Our numerical calculation res...

Rolled-up SnO2 nanomembranes: A new platform for efficient gas sensors

Metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) nanomembranes hold a great potential for electronic devices. In this work, tubular SnO2 nanomembranes were fabricated by the rolled-up technology and investigated as the sensing element for chemiresistive gas sensors. Due to the high accessibility to both surfaces of nanomembranes and the large amount of adsorbed oxygen species, the sensor based on SnO2 nanomembranes displayed high and fast response for selective detection of acetone, as well as good repeatability, stability and low detection limit of ppb-level. The very good sensing performances derived from the tubular nanomembrane structure suggests a new platform that can be used for chemical gas sensors. This work will drive the integration of tubular MOS nanomembranes into a real microsensor based on the lab-in-tube concept.

Single-Electron Charging Effects in Hybrid Organic/Inorganic Nanomembrane-Based Junctions

The controllable transfer of a single electron in devices (SEDs) is one of the viable trends for a new generation of technology. However, novel applications demand innovative strategies to fabricate and evaluate SEDs. Here, we report a hybrid organic/inorganic SED that combines an ensemble of physisorbed, semiconducting molecular layers (SMLs) and Au nanoclusters embedded in the transport channel by in situ, field-induced metal migration. The SED is fabricated using an integrative platform based on rolled-up nanomembranes (rNMs) to connect ultrathin SMLs from the top, forming large-area tunnel junctions. The combination of high electric fields (1–4 MV/cm), electrode point contacts, low temperatures (10 K), and ultrathin molecular layers ( 1 MV/cm). The propel...

Ultralong‐Discharge‐Time Biobattery Based on Immobilized Enzymes in Bilayer Rolled‐Up Enzymatic Nanomembranes

Glucose biofuel cells (GBFCs) are highly promising power sources for implantable biomedical and consumer electronics because they provide a high energy density and safety. However, it remains a great challenge to combine their high power density with reliable long-term stability. In this study, a novel GBFC design based on the enzyme biocatalysts glucose dehydrogenase, diaphorase, and bilirubin oxidase immobilized in rolled-up titanium nanomembranes is reported. The setup delivers a maximum areal power density of ≈3.7 mW cm-2 and a stable power output of ≈0.8 mW cm-2 . The power discharges over 452 h, which is considerably longer than reported previously. These results demonstrate that the GBFC design is in principle a feasible and effective approach to solve the long-term discharge challenge for implantable biomedical device applications.

Charge transport in organic nanocrystal diodes based on rolled-up robust nanomembrane contacts.

The investigation of charge transport in organic nanocrystals is essential to understand nanoscale physical properties of organic systems and the development of novel organic nanodevices. In this work, we fabricate organic nanocrystal diodes contacted by rolled-up robust nanomembranes. The organic nanocrystals consist of vanadyl phthalocyanine and copper hexadecafluorophthalocyanine heterojunctions. The temperature dependent charge transport through organic nanocrystals was investigated to reveal the transport properties of ohmic and space-charge-limited current under different conditions, for instance, temperature and bias.