Sean O'Malley - Dept of Physics
Rutgers University
Abstract:
Material systems that self-assemble into nano-structures are of great interest because of their ability to form compositionally and spatially distinct regions otherwise unattainable through traditional materials processing techniques. The spinel oxide ZnMnGaO4 (ZMGO) was recently discovered to undergo a self-assembly process during annealing to form an in-plane nano-checkerboard (CB) pattern of vertically aligned nano-pillars with alternating Mn-rich and -poor composition. The structural distortions associated with the coherent coexistence of the CB formation have been studied using cross-sectional reciprocal space mapping (RSM). The importance of substrate material and the resulting strain state will be discussed along with the symmetry of lattice distortions at the CB domain boundaries. Such planar CB systems could possibly be utilized in the growth of composite multiferroics material systems and the construction of high-density magnetic recording devices.
2009 Run
Sept. 23rd to Nov. 10th
