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New class of diamond-based materials and technique for synthesis (08 IT 55X8 0J3R)
An Italian university research group has developed a technique for the production of diamond layers with selected electrical or optical properties. Depending on the foreign phases inserted, the diamond-based materials behave as good-quality semiconductors, adding conductivity to the outstanding properties of the diamond, or can exhibit strong photoluminescence. Researchers are looking for license agreement and technical co-operation.
Country: Italy
Type: OFFER
Date: 19.12.2011
A new hybrid Chemical Vapour Deposition/Powder Flowing technique is used to produce nano-composite or doped diamond layers by inserting metals, ceramics or semiconductors inside a d polycrystalline diamond matrix. These structures represent a novel class of materials, characterised by the maintenance of the crystalline lattice of the diamond. The material can be obtained in the form of films, coatings and freestanding layers (thickness in the range 0.3-5 micron, approximately) and deposited on a variety of substrates.
The functional characterisations of the metal containing diamond layers evidenced that it is possible to tailor the resistance from the typical values of insulating diamond up to values typical pf metals or p-type conductive materials. Dispersions of nano-sized Si particles produced layers characterised by a strong and stable photoluminescence at room temperature. The emission can be tuned between 2.1 and 2.4 e V (yellow-blue region).
Innovative Aspects:
Electrodes assembled using conductive diamond layers containing nano-dispersions of Nd, Ti, W, Mo evidenced remarkable improvements (in terms of potential windows, sensitivity, robustness, long-term stability, biocompatibility) with respect to conventional carbon electrodes. These characteristics make the diamond-based electrodes extremely attractive for the fabrication of sensors and biosensors for quality monitoring in process of food production and for control of environmental and clinical parameters.
The electrodes assembled with conducting diamond layers can be used in hostile environments, under critical thermal or mechanical conditions, in the field of biomedicine. The photo-luminescent Si/containing layers can be used as robust components for lasers and for opto-electronic applications.
The technology for preparation of the layers needs the use of a designed CVD apparatus and of the know-how developed the research group. The whole technology can be transferred to the users.
Degree of development:
Patents/Rights: Patent(s) granted
Requested Cooperation: License Agreement, Joint further development
- Type of partner sought:
industry
- Specific area of activity of the partner:
production of sensors for diagnostic, environmental controland opto-electronics
- Task to be performed:
license agreement or technical co-operation
Type of Organisation:
Status: NEW
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