Cucurbitrils for Hardwired Optical and Electronic Self-assembly

Lead Research Organisation: University of Cambridge
Department Name: Physics

Abstract

We aim to grow specific-sized metal and semiconductor nanoparticles inside rigid molecular cages called cucurbiturils, and subsequently assemble them into functional nano-chains. Combining these filled cages with well-defined connector molecules allows us to precisely define particle geometries, particle separations and particle interfacing. This in turn enables the robust construction of plasmonic optical antennae at visible wavelengths, room-temperature single-electron-tunnelling transistors and combined photovoltaics. Such functional properties open up novel alternative methods for directed assembly using irradiation with precisely-tuned lasers, nano-electrochemistry or ac-electric fields. This approach will constitute the basis of a new nanotechnology platform for organic-inorganic ordered nano-composites.
 
Description We have shown how a rigid molecule can glue together gold nanoparticles with precise sub-nanometre gaps, to confine light in tiny volumes. This concentration allows a host of new properties, including sensing small molecules at very low concentration.
Exploitation Route Yes, and we are exploring these with medical researchers, and companies.
Sectors Chemicals,Environment,Healthcare,Pharmaceuticals and Medical Biotechnology
URL http://www.np.phy.cam.ac.uk/publications
 
Description We have developed new technologies for sensing. These have been patented and we are developing biomedical applications, and working with companies. We are working on the detection of neurotransmittters and other hormones in urine, and scaling the cost of the detection technology to the level it can be used for long periods in the home. This would transform many issues in dosaging pychiatric drugs, such as anti-psychotics, anti-depressants, and drug dosage compliance, and our biomedical partners are very excited. Further development work is in progress.
First Year Of Impact 2011
Sector Chemicals,Environment,Healthcare,Pharmaceuticals and Medical Biotechnology
Impact Types Societal,Economic
 
Title Research data supporting: Revealing Nanostructures through Plasmon Polarimetry 
Description Polarized optical dark-?eld spectroscopy is shown to be a versatile noninvasive probe of plasmonic structures that trap light to the nanoscale. Clear spectral polarization splittings are found to be directly related to the asymmetric morphology of nanocavities formed between faceted gold nanoparticles and an underlying gold substrate. Both experiment and simulation show the in?uence of geometry on the coupled system, with spectral shifts ?? = 3 nm from single atoms. Analytical models allow us to identify the split resonances as transverse cavity modes, tightly con?ned to the nanogap. The direct correlation of resonance splitting with atomistic morphology allows mapping of subnanometre structures, which is crucial for progress in extreme nano-optics involving chemistry, nanophotonics, and quantum devices. Here are the dataset provided that contain all the information of the 4 figures of the article showing experimental as well as theoretical polarization dependent dark-field scattering of NPoM structures. 
Type Of Material Database/Collection of data 
Provided To Others? Yes  
 
Company Name Base4 
Description Spin-out producing a new ultra-high speed DNA sequencing technology 
Year Established 2010 
Impact second tranche of funding, having hit milestones
Website http://www.base4.co.uk
 
Description Naked Scientist interview 
Form Of Engagement Activity A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press)
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact interview on our work recorded with Naked Scientist
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
 
Description SET for Parliment 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Policymakers/politicians
Results and Impact Laura Brooks represented our work at SET in Parliment, won 2nd prize
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
 
Description Science Society talk 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Undergraduate students
Results and Impact Talk for the Cambridge University Science Society
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
 
Description Stoner lecture, Leeds 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact JJB gave the Stoner lecture on translating research
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
 
Description exibit in Cambridge Science Museum 
Form Of Engagement Activity A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press)
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact built polymer opals exhibit as part of Cambridge Science Museum display
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016