Award Abstract #0108694
Thermodynamics of Clusters and Nanometer Thin Film Interfaces

NSF Org:	DMR Division of Materials Research
Initial Amendment Date:	May 29, 2001
Latest Amendment Date:	May 8, 2003
Award Number:	0108694
Award Instrument:	Standard Grant
Program Manager:	LaVerne D. Hess DMR Division of Materials Research MPS Directorate for Mathematical & Physical Sciences
Start Date:	May 15, 2001
Expires:	April 30, 2006 (Estimated)
Awarded Amount to Date:	$417384
Investigator(s):	Leslie Allen l-allen9@uiuc.edu (Principal Investigator)
Sponsor:	University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign SUITE A CHAMPAIGN, IL 61820 217/333-2187
NSF Program(s):	ELECTRONIC/PHOTONIC MATERIALS
Field Application(s):	0106000 Materials Research
Program Reference Code(s):	AMPP, 9251, 9161, 1682
Program Element Code(s):	1775

ABSTRACT

This project addresses basic issues of materials at nanoscale dimensions. The research will investigate thermodynamic properties of Si nanostructures and silicide interfaces using a new and highly sensitive calorimetric device. For example, the phenomenon of melting point depression for surface-supported particles can be measured for particles as small as 1000 atoms.

The focus is on understanding unique properties and behavior of nanometer-sized materials. The approach is to measure thermodynamic properties of Si nanostructures and silicide interfaces including structural stability and heat capacity to establish a more complete picture of the material physics of structures at these dimensions. Earlier investigations of magic number(integers of atomic layers) nanostructures from metals to semiconductor Si nanostructures will be extended by measuring the specific heat, melting temperature, and associated enthalpy, as well as particle size using TEM.

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The project addresses basic research issues in a contemporary topical area of materials science with high potential significance and technological relevance. An important feature of the program is the integration of research and education through the training of students in a fundamentally and technologically significant area. The project is expected to provide unique opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students to develop strong technical, communication, and organizational/management skills through unique experiences made possible by a forefront research environment.

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