Chen Research Group | National Cheng Kung University
Nano-Electroanalysis Laboratory
Research Projects
Our research focus on investigations of interface chemistry of functional nanomaterials for advanced applications in sensing, energy storage/conversion and biomedical applications. The interface we are especially interested in is close to the proximity of thin-layered nano-structures, such as graphene-like materials.
Synthesis and Characterization of Functional Nanomaterials
Recent studies show extensive interest in materials with only one dimension limited at the nanometer scale, known as atomic-layered nanomaterials or two-dimensional (2D) materials. Among these 2D materials, single atomic-layered graphene was first prepared with tape exfoliation method in 2004 by A.K. Geim and K.S. Novoselov and has been reported to display distinct physical properties, including extraordinary electrical/thermal conductivity, outstanding transparency and high mechanical strength and flexibility. Due to these distinct properties, graphene is considered as a promising material for developments in flexible electronics, sensing platforms and energy applications. Our research goal in this project is to develop well-controlled processes to prepare graphene-based nanomaterials with desired functional structures for both fundamental studies and advanced applications.
Development of Multifunctional Surface Mapping System
Techniques applied frequently in our group for interface investigations of interested nanomaterials include atomic force microscopy (AFM), micro Raman spectroscopy, scanning ion conductance microscopy (SICM) and its hybrid techniques. These techniques can be classified as scanning probe microscopy techniques (SPMs) characterized by raster scanning physical or optical probes along the sample surface to collect topographic, chemical or photonic information of interest. In general, the movement of these scanning probes is precisely controlled using piezo actuators on which the probes are mounted. With advancement in operation protocols and improvement in fabrication of minimized scanning probes, surface mapping of various physicochemcial properties with high spatial and temporal resolution can be obtained. In addition, with specially designed scanning probes, localized patterning and modification of sample surface with well-defined nanostructures can be achieved.
Modification of Nanomaterials for Advanced Applications
Taking advantages of graphene-based materials, such as high biocompatibility, unique mechanical properties and extraordinary electrical conductivity, we attampt to fabricate functional devices based on graphene materials for applications in biosensing, flexible electronics and energy storage/conversion.
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