(6) Graphene

Graphene (single-layer graphite) has recently emerged as a material with interesting low-dimensional physics and potential applications in electronics. Here in our lab, we are interested in synthesis, electrical and optical properties of various forms of graphene, and the potential applications of them.

(6.1) Synthesis

We developed a chemical route to synthesize ultrasmooth graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) down to sub-10nm wide. [X. Li, X. Wang et al. Science, 319, 1229 (2008)] This method enabled the study of very narrow GNRs which was not possible by conventional synthesis methods. We have also found a lot of interesting structures such as smooth 120 degree junctions and branches, which are interesting structures in molecular electronics.

 

(6.2) Nano-electronics

Graphene based electronics is attractive because of the extremely high mobility in bulk graphene and, as we recently demonstrated, semiconducting property for all sub-10nm wide GNRs. [X. Li, X. Wang et al. Science, 319, 1229 (2008), X. Wang et al. PRL, 100, 206803 (2008)] This is very different from CNTs where 1/3 of CNTs are metallic. Sub-10nm GNRs are possible candidates for future nano-electronics. Future direction in this area include optimization of GNR transistors and large scale integration.

 

(6.3) Quantum electrical transport

Graphene has fascinating electrical transport properties at low temperature. Quantum Hall Effect has been observed in graphene by different groups. We are interested in the electrical and spin transport properties of our chemically synthesized graphene.