Detection of Molecular Mechanics On Graphene Surface: An Electromechanical Logic Device

In this talk, we will demonstrate the quasi-quantum sensitivity of graphene surface by a detailed investigation of the fermionic redistribution it exhibits in response to the sub-nano scale mechanical motion, occurring within a single azo-benzene molecule, tethered onto its surface. We utilize this azo-functionalized graphene construct for the fabrication of a temperature-regulated opto-electro-mechanical logic device. The planar open ended sp^2 bond carbon lattice structure in Graphene confines the dense π carriers, providing them highest mobilities and facilitating an ultra sensitive platform amenable to detect as small as a ‘single quanta'. We utilize this unique property of graphene to determine the photo-induced conformational change in the azo-molecules tethered onto its surface. This azo-functionalized graphene based opto-electro-mechanical device is characterized in detail for its ‘electrical response' (conductivity, carrier density and mobility states) in the optically induced cis and trans conformations of tethered azo molecules, factors which can regulate this response and the mechanism of the conformation-induced electronic modulation. This research will enable development of next-generation graphene based systems such as optoelectronic-switches, nano-mechanical motors and logic devices.