Nanoelectronics

Abstract

Nanoelectronics is the study of how electrons flow through materials and devices at the nanoscale. By controlling the electron flow in a predictable manner, one may fabricate useful devices ranging from computers, digital cameras, chemical and biological sensors, to LEDs (light emitting diodes), LASER (light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation) devices, solar cells, thermoelectric devices, etc.

Appendices

Problems

6.1 For $D(E)=1\,\mathrm{eV}^{-1}$ and $v_{g}=0$, calculate the transmission T(E).

6.2 What is the value of the quantum of conductance for one band? If the applied voltage is 1 V, calculate the current.

6.3 What is the value of the quantum of conductance for two bands? If the applied voltage is 1 V, calculate the current.

6.4 Comment on the state of the art channel length in silicon transistors. How many silicon atoms are there on average along the length of the channel?

6.5 Give an example of a nanosensor.

6.6 Give an example of a nanobiosensor.

6.7 Give an example of a bionanosensor. How is it different from a nanobiosensor?

6.8 What are the various nanomaterials used in the storage node of a flash memory?

6.9 Give an example of a single molecule transistor.

6.10 What are the commonly used materials in the thermoelectric devices?

6.11 What are the advantages and disadvantages of thermoelectric refrigerators?

6.12 What are the advantages and disadvantages of thermoelectric generators?

Research Assignment

R6.1 Nanotechnology has had the most evident impact on the area of computing. This technology has revolutionized computer chips, memory chips, charge couple device (CCD) chips, sensors, flexible electronics, televisions, etc. Pick a topic of your choice about the impact of nanotechnology on computing devices, and write a one-page summary.