MLD

This project deals with the research and development of new Molecular Layer Deposition (MLD) processes for conjugated organic molecules. MLD is a technique using the unique features of Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) for the vapor phase deposition or organic polymers and organic/inorganic hybrid structures. In this project MLD process development includes reactor design and appropriate in-situ control of film growth (quartz crystal microbalance, mass spectroscopy, optical spectroscopy).
The development of new organic precursor molecules for MLD is a second complementary part of the project, which is done in cooperation with the Technical University Braunschweig. On the one hand these newly developed precursor molecules must contain the building blocks of the final conjugated molecules forming the deposited films. On the other hand, to be suitable for a MLD process the precursor molecules must be able to undergo repeated self limited surface reactions.
Based on the reactor design, the precursor molecules and the in situ process control new polymer films, multilayers and organic/inorganic hybrid structures will be deposited and analyzed. Homogeneity and self limitation of film growth is a important point to be demonstrated within the project. Analysis of the deposited films includes XPS, UPS, UV-Vis and IR spectroscopy as well as TEM measurements to investigate the morphologic, electronic and optical properties of the films. Thin film analysis is done in cooperation with the Innovation Lab in Heidelberg and together with the Institute of Polymer Technology and other partners at the University of Wuppertal.
The research goal of the project is to apply new optoelectronic films and structures on arbitrarily shaped objects like bended or microstructured surfaces.

Duration:
01.11.2010 - 31.10.2012

Projectleader:
Prof. Dr. T. Riedl