NanoClusters - The deposition of size-selected metallic nano-clusters on different substrates

This project is investigating the deposition of size-selected metallic nano-clusters on different substrates. Metallic clusters containing from two to several hundred atoms have size dependent properties which are amazingly similar to those of atomic nuclei (e.g. shell structure and magic numbers), and can be regarded as "artificial atoms" for nanofabrication. The experiments employ three novel mass-selected cluster beam sources recently developed by the group together with a combination of surface physics techniques, including scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM) and high resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy (HREELS). Specific targets include


the excited states of size- and shape-selected clusters,
the transition from atomic to metallic behaviour in the "twilight zone" between atomic and solid state physics,
the catalytic properties of the clusters as a function of their size, and
the creation of nanostructured template surfaces to trap and organise biomolecules.

An exciting new idea is to explore the self-assembly of molecules on deposited, size-selected clusters to create "designer binding sites" suitable for attachment of single protein molecules. This would make possible a new generation of experimental studies of protein-protein interactions and real-time protein complex formation. Novel optical experiments, "under water" scanning probe microscopy and novel nanoelectronic device structures for protein detection, based on single electron tunnelling, are all envisaged in this major new program, a collaboration with Biosciences and Medicine.