Research subfield Nanophysics/-technology (NANO)
The area of nanophysics/-technology has a strong presence in the Netherlands and sets the stage for important scientific and technological developments. The field employs research on physical phenomena that take place on a nanoscale (1-100 nm). At this scale, matter reacts fundamentally different from bulk matter and new phenomena are caused.
The nanophysics field is a very broad, multidisciplinary area of research, with challenging scientific questions and an enormous potential for innovation and practical application in areas like communication technology, medical technology and smart materials. Nanophysics can be subdivided into research on new concepts (for example on photonic, electronic or magnetic principles) and research on new platforms (like single molecules or nanowires).
NANO in the Netherlands
NANO research in the Netherlands is often organised into specialised institutes. Typical NANO researchers have access to small-scale, specialised research instruments for nano-characterisation. Nano research, although taking place on a small-scale, is best performed in multidisciplinary institutes or environments. FOM institute AMOLF and institutes in Twente, Groningen, Nijmegen, Eindhoven, Leiden, Delft and Utrecht all have a considerable nano programme. In several cases, a strong collaboration between physicists, chemists and technologists takes place. Scientific research in the area of nanophysics in the Netherlands is generally considered to be of excellent international quality.
Research themes
- Beyond Moore
The end of Moore's Law, which describes the exponentially progressing miniaturisation of electronics, is in sight. With new technological incentives, nano research focuses on new platforms (such as lasers based on nanothreads) and concepts (such as spintronics and quantum algorithms) that might follow up silicon-based semiconductors. In addition, efforts are made to produce completely new functionalities and to integrate diverse functionalities on a single chip surface.
The research theme 'Beyond Moore' focuses on nanoscale optical and electronic phenomena, new concepts for molecular scale devices and integrated circuits, and GHz/THz electron and spin dynamics. - Nanomedicine
'Nanomedicine' is the application of nanophysics and technology in medical science. Biologically relevant processes often occur at a nanoscale level such as the passage of a molecule through a nanopore in a membrane. Often it concerns complex multiparticle interactions, a field where physicists may offer important contributions. This also applies to research into electrical, magnetic, mechanical and optical processes, for example.
The field employs nanoscale (1-100 nm) biomolecular, inorganic or hybrid structures, devices and technical or biological systems with new characteristics. Examples are nanostructures for ultrasensitive sensing and molecular diagnostics, nanoscale container structures and lab-on-a-chip devices. - Functional nanoparticles and nanopatterned surfaces
A functional nanoparticle is an object (1-100 nm) with a specific mechanical, chemical, biological, opto-electronic, or magnetic functionality. Due to their small dimensions and relatively large surface, nanoparticles display unique characteristics. Nanoparticles, such as metal and semiconductor particles, colloids and carbon tubes, have been applied for a considerable time now in composites, catalysts, airplane parts and cosmetics.
Nanostructured surfaces furnish materials with new characteristics, like superhydrophobe surfaces, or surfaces with new optical characteristics. These nanostructure surfaces can be used, for example, in medical applications.
The Netherlands has a strong tradition in the field of colloid and supramolecular chemistry, and can play a leading role in the further development of this field.
Advisory committee Nanophysics/-technology
For the subfield Nanophysics/-technology (NANO) an advisory committee has been appointed that provides the Executive Board with solicited and unsolicited advice about proposals for new FOM programmes. The committee also helps to monitor the progress of current FOM programmes.
The Nanophysics/-technology advisory committee members are:
- Prof.dr. A. Fiore (chair, TU/e)
- Prof.dr. T. Gregorkiewicz (UvA)
- Prof.dr. A.F. Koenderink (AMOLF)
- Prof.dr. C. de Morais Smith (UU)
- Prof.dr.ir. T.H. Oosterkamp (LEI)
- Prof.dr.ir. L.M.K. Vandersypen (TUD)
- Prof.dr.ir. C.H. van der Wal (RUG)
- Dr.ir. F.P. Widdershoven (NXP Semiconductors)
secretary: Dr.ir. M. Hoek
The following research programmes fall under this subarea.