ENGINEERING TRIPOS PART IIB – 2012/2013

Module 4B5 - Nanotechnology

AIMS

The aim of this module is to introduce the basic quantum mechanical principles which underpin the design and operation of modern electronic devices. Mathematical formalism is kept to the minimum required for quantitative analysis of solid state devices. No previous knowledge of quantum phenomena is assumed.

LECTURE SYLLABUS (Dr C. Durkan 12L)

Nanotechnology & quantum phenomena

• Lecture 1. Introduction to Nanotechnology. The orgins of Quantum Mechanics (QM).
• Lecture 2. Wave-particle duality, wave equation, momentum, energy and Schrodinger's equation, probability density and normalisation.
• Lectures 3 & 4. QM expression for electron current, solutions to Schrodinger's equation (finite potential well, infinite barrier-tunnelling). Atoms & molecules. Approximate methods in QM - example, Field Emission.
• Lecture 5. Atomic vibrations in materials - the simple harmonic oscillator as seen by QM - application to understanding the thermal & electrical properties of materials
• Lecture 6. Electrons in crystals, Kronig Penney model, energy bands, effective mass and carrier transport, density of states, Conductors Vs insulators.
• Lecture 7. The future of the transistor & Nanotechnology. Molecular electronics.
• Lectures 8 & 9. Visulising the nanoworld - scanning probe microscopy.
• Lectures 10 & 11. Basic device concepts utilizing particle and wave nature of electrons: Quantum wells, 2-D electron gas and high electron mobility transistors (HEMT), resonant tunnelling, ballistic, transistors, optically absorbing and radiating devices.

COURSEWORK

4 hour interactive computer simulation on aspects of solid state and quantum electronics. A formal report of the simulation is required (approximately six hours' work).

OBJECTIVES

On completion of the module students should:

• Be able to explain basic principles of quantum mechanics;
• Understand how wave phenomena of electrons can be predicted;
• Understand the origin of band structure in solids;
• Appreciate how nanoscale engineering allows for wave based electronic devices to be realised;
• Prepare for design and research in solid state electronic/opto-electronic devices.

REFERENCES

Please see the Booklist for Group B Courses for references for this module.

Last updated: June 2012