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Evaluating Plasmonic Transport in Current-carrying Silver Nanowires
Published on: December 11, 2013
Contact planarization of ensemble nanowires.
1Department of Engineering Physics, Centre for Emerging Device Technologies, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.
Nanotechnology
|April 22, 2011
Summary
Four organic polymers were tested for nanowire array planarization. Cyclotene effectively planarized nanowires, enabling optoelectronic device fabrication.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Optoelectronics
Background:
- Achieving planarization in ensemble nanowire arrays is crucial for fabricating functional optoelectronic devices.
- Organic polymers offer potential as cost-effective filling materials for nanowire array fabrication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the viability of four organic polymers (S1808, SC200, SU8, and Cyclotene) as filling materials for ensemble nanowire array planarization.
- To analyze the porosity, surface roughness, and thermal stability of these polymer candidates.
- To confirm the effectiveness of a chosen polymer in enabling complete nanowire planarization and device functionality.
Main Methods:
- Four organic polymers were assessed for their properties.
- Nanowire arrays were planarized using sonication to remove excess nanowire material.
- Fabrication of ensemble nanowire devices was completed.
- Current-voltage (I-V) measurements were performed to assess device performance.
Main Results:
- Cyclotene demonstrated effective planarization of nanowire arrays.
- Cyclotene also functioned as an insulating layer between device contacts.
- Sonication proved to be an effective method for achieving complete nanowire top removal.
Conclusions:
- Cyclotene is a viable organic polymer for planarizing ensemble nanowire arrays.
- The developed fabrication and characterization methods are suitable for future optoelectronic device applications utilizing nanowire arrays.

