Guest molecule builds 3D nanostructures Nov 26, 2010 1 comment
The self-assembly of artificial 3D nanostructures on a surface
has been achieved for the first time, claims a team of
researchers in the UK. Until now, such assembly was only
possible in 2D and the scientists say that the new technique
could be useful for creating molecular computers and information
storage devices of the future. Self-assembly is an attractive
bottom-up method for fabricating nanostructures. It is simple
and quick, and does not require expensive equipment or extreme
conditions. Until now, however, the technique has only been used
to make simple periodic structures and making more complex
architectures remains a major goal in nanotechnology today.
Introducing a guest molecule Neil Champness and Peter Beton's
team at the University of Nottingham has now used self-assembly
to build molecules upwards and outwards from a surface by
introducing a "guest" molecule onto the surface. When additional
"host" molecules are then added, these s