The detection of noxious gases or bio-agents is important for various environmental and security needs. High sensitivity, sufficient selectivity and molecular recognition are key characteristics for such sensing. Nebraska MRSEC researchers have developed a scheme for molecular sensing using magnetic tracer particles and a microcantilever torsional magnetometer.
To change the magnetization of a ferromagnet usually requires a magnetic field. So, for example, if we put a compass needle into the high field of an MRI machine, we can no longer trust it to swivel to the North. Similarly, the magnetic stripes on credit cards and key cards can be destroyed in high magnetic fields. Electric fields don’t have the same effect on magnetic materials, which is ju
Photovoltaics is a method of converting solar radiation into electricity. Some semiconducting materials exhibit a property known as the photoelectric effect that causes them to absorb light and release electrons. In addition to the semiconductors, ferroelectric materials have been employed to create ferroelectric-photovoltaic devices.
The Nebraska MRSEC Professor/Student Pairs Program brings in professor/student pairs from non-research intensive four-year institutions to conduct research with Nebraska MRSEC scientists. The goal is to provide a research experience which benefits both the participants and the MRSEC projects. For the professor, this program provides an opportunity to conduct new research, access to facilities
High conductivity and efficient charge injection into organic layers could lead to the design of more efficient organic solar cells and molecular electronics, especially light emitting diodes. Most organic materials are however insulators and only few exhibit high conducting properties.
Ferroelectric materials are characterized by a spontaneous polarization that can be switched by external electric field. This property is important for various technological applications such ferroelectric random access memories.
