Atoms to Systems Lab 

Our group focuses on flexible/stretchable electronic nanomaterials, serving both sensing and energy storage functionalities in wearable applications. We have activities in synthesis, characterization, and device fabrication.

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Materials Synthesis:

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Leveraging our core strength and focusing primarily on electronic properties, we synthesize polymers, porous materials, 2D materials, and nanocomposites typically into thin-films. Depending on the required structure, morphology, and properties, we work with a wide range of materials including hydrogels, ionic gels, MXenes, and TMDs. Our synthesis techniques range from low-temperature solution processes, chemical vapor deposition (CVD), pulsed laser deposition (PLD), evaporation, to sputtering. Post-fabrication processing is also investigated such as surface functionalization, doping, ion implantation, and thermal annealing.

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Materials Characterization:

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The Lab is well equipped with materials synthesis, characterization, device fabrication, and integration facilities. Specifically, we have capabilities in synthesis, characterization (e.g. SEM, TEM, XRD, XPS, Raman, and FTIR), device fabrication, (e.g.  micro-plotter, programmable laser, 3D printers, and electro-spinners), and various testing platforms (e.g. mechanical/tensile tester, semiconductor parameter analyzer, gas sensing with environmental control, and electrochemical/impedance analyzer).

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Device Fabrication:

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Nanomaterials are realized into various device structures to serve a variety of practical functions. In fact, our group has strong device emphasis and all our work involve device demonstration, either in the lab or in the field (e.g. clinical setting for medical devices). We explore several key device aspects including the engineering of interfaces, contact, and mechanical robustness for flexible and stretchable electronics. This effort allows us to develop practical and commercializable devices, often in collaboration with industry.

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