Mainz 2017 – scientific programme

Parts | Days | Selection | Search | Updates | Downloads | Help

Q: Fachverband Quantenoptik und Photonik

Q 31: Poster: Quantum Optics and Photonics I

Q 31.85: Poster

Tuesday, March 7, 2017, 17:00–19:00, P OG1+2

Controlling metal nanotip shapes for application in laser triggered electron emission via dynamic electrochemical etching — •Philipp Hofmann, Alexander Tafel, Jürgen Ristein, and Peter Hommelhoff — Department Physik, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen

Ultra sharp tips are essential for nanometer probe techniques such as scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and are powerful tools for studying strong field physics due to field enhancement at the tip apex. Simulations [1] have shown that large opening angles of approximately 15^∘ for gold and 40^∘ for tungsten nanotips result in maximum optical field enhancement. Static two electrode etching setups, widely used for their simplicity, lack reproducibility and the tip opening angle cannot be influenced. Additionally, important process parameters such as temperature and etching potential are not accurately controlled. In our new setup, an Arduino Mega 2560 regulates and monitors all relevant etching parameters. The electrochemical potential is measured by a reference electrode and the tip shape can be influenced with a dynamic mechanism. Our setup, tested with tungsten, is designed to be easily adoptable to a wide range of tip materials.

[1] Sebastian Thomas et al., 2015 New J. Phys. 17 063010.