Strain-Modulated Diamond Nanostructures for Next-Generation, Biocompatible Nanoelectromechanical Systems

In this proposal, we demonstrate fabrication and characterization of diamond nanoribbons, novel strain-modulated diamond nanostructures (SMDN). Such structures are generated by applying strain force on nano-patterned diamond film as the nanopatterns are transferred to a flexible substrate. Once the strain is released, the rigid diamond patterns are converted to highly ordered diamond nanoribbons. The nanoribbons provide a platform for investigating the electronic performance of diamond under strain and hence exploring the potential of strain-diamond electronics. These structures also convert rigid diamond into flexible shapes, which should enable them to be employed as highly biocompatible materials in implantable devices in the human body. Therefore, a study on their surface chemistry and biocompatibility will be conducted as a key part of the project. Through this Phase I project we will assess the relationship between the nanoribbon performance and the diamond manufacturing parameters. With diamond nanoribbons, we will conceptually prove if SMDN have high mobility and biocompatibility, and discover any other unique aspects of this type of nanostructure. More essentially, the results could give birth to high mobility diamond electronics and"flexible diamond"devices, each of which could bring significant value to the fields of nanotechnology, information technology industry and biomedical instruments.