Atom probe (Upgrade)

• Subject Area: Condensed Matter Physics
• Term: Funded in 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 458902866

In the last 4 years, we have employed an atom probe to characterize advanced functional materials. These investigations have produced a number of noteworthy findings, including compelling evidence for a novel bonding mechanism in solids. Besides, a novel map has been developed which provides novel design rules for advanced functional materials. To fulfil the full potential of these discoveries, an upgrade of the existing is required. The main reasons for such upgrade are better detection capabilities with an increased detection efficiency of ~ 80% and enhanced data uniformity. Moreover, the laser alignment protocols are improved to enable increased measurement yields for complex materials. These novel capabilities will help us to better understand the unconventional bond-breaking behaviour observed for a distinct class of chalcogenides used as thermoelectrics, phase change materials, and topological insulators.

• DFG Programme: Major Research Instrumentation
• Major Instrumentation: Atomsonde (Aufrüstung)
• Instrumentation Group: 0920 Atom- und Molekularstrahl-Apparaturen
• Applicant Institution: Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen
• Leader: Professor Dr. Matthias Wuttig