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3 The Research Program
Pages 14-24

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From page 14...
... The seamless integration between the imaging facility and the in situ sample preparation enables the study of a broad range of functional materials beyond the classical cleavable samples, such as graphene, high-temperature superconductors, or layered correlated oxides. The scientific output made possible by these unique instruments is extremely impressive.
From page 15...
... Portfolio of Scientific Expertise The staffing and composition of the EPG is largely unchanged since the NRC 2011 assessment.2 EPG research encompasses scanning-probe microscopy; nanomagnetic imaging and dynamics; theory, modeling, and simulation; and laser manipulation of atoms. The EPG conducts a wide range of crossdisciplinary research that focuses on developing innovative measurement capabilities for nanotechnology, with an emphasis on future electronics applications.
From page 16...
... The EPG has also developed superb tools that support research on nanomagnetism, including imaging using SEMPA, measurements of magnetic dynamics, and new work on magneto-optical ferromagnetic resonance. The group continues to work on the development of new ion sources for focused ion beams to improve imaging, nanoscale milling, circuit editing, and nanoscale implantation.
From page 17...
... ENERGY RESEARCH GROUP Introduction The mission of the ERG was stated as follows: Working with facility users, develop new measurement methods in the areas of energy generation, conversion and storage, focusing on correlation of atomic and nanoscale structural and morphological properties of materials and devices with functional performance.3 The ERG aims to accomplish this mission through addressing the unmet needs of users focusing on cross-cutting measurement challenges brought forward by energy materials and devices and leveraging broader CNST and NIST expertise. Use novel fabrication methods to enable new measurements.4 The evaluative comments and suggestions from the 2011 NRC assessment are presented below.
From page 18...
... contributions by the ERG researchers have been important to the effort to explain the fundamental properties of oxygen ion conductors (solid oxide fuel cells) and the intercalation properties of certain oxides (lithium ion batteries)
From page 19...
... In essence, it is characterizing nanomaterials and structures using multimodal techniques. The ERG is, however, below critical mass to make a significant impact on a sustained basis.
From page 20...
... This represents an exciting opportunity that may lead to significant national and global impact. As a user facility open to soft materials efforts, the ERG could be in a position to develop new measurements that bridge nano- and micro-length scales; incorporate sensors and actuators for optical, mechanical, and electrical interrogation; detect and quantify the integration and disintegration of materials at the biotic and abiotic interface; print or pattern in or on flexible, stretchable substrates other than PDMS; create nanosensors in a specific shape or position in or on a larger probe; and produce curved surfaces, curved patterns, or smooth gradients of materials.
From page 21...
... There are many opportunities to tie imaging with theory, which would have major impact, but those efforts need to be well integrated. NANOFABRICATION RESEARCH GROUP Introduction The NRG has a stated mission of "working with facility users, develop new measurement methods to enable the development and effective industrial-scale use of nanomanufacturing and nanofabrication processes."13 The group has grown slightly since the 2011 NRC assessment;14 it currently consists of 8 project leaders, 3 staff scientists, a process engineer, and 17 postdoctoral researchers, with expertise that includes electron microscopy and nano-electromechanical systems.
From page 22...
... The project on super-resolution fluorescence microscopy for materials science exhibits exceptional real space resolution that is ideal for soft materials. The study focus is on the emission lifetime of molecules, which are sensitive to the local environment providing a sixth dimension of imaging.
From page 23...
... For example, it has teamed up to develop the next-generation focused ion beam with FEI. Two capabilities that stand out are the environmental TEM and the Nanolithography Toolbox, a very useful design tool that could have impact beyond the CNST and its users.
From page 24...
... This activity is a very useful service. Opportunities and Challenges In line with the its mission, the NRG needs to spend more time "taking the pulse" of the community through strategically placing talks at conferences, organizing workshops and conference sessions, and society service.


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