This research collaboration involving John Angus, Alfred Anderson, and Heidi Martin and their students at Case Western Reserve University investigates the fundamental interactions between the surface chemistry, electronic structure, and charge transport at conducting diamond surfaces. With the support of the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program, a research project focusing on the growth of boron and sulfur doped diamond films, characterization of these films by electrical, optical, structural, and electrochemical methods, and spectroscopic characterization of adsorbates and their effect on surface conductivity is being undertaken. Ab-initio calculations are used to interpret the results of this experimental work. Proof of concept design of new sensors based on the surface conductivity of diamond induced by adsorption is being carried out.
A detailed understanding of the effects of adsorption on the conductivity and electronic properties of diamond electrode surfaces can be used to develop new sensor strategies. A combined experimental and theoretical research effort is being carried out to address these questions in the growth and characterization of diamond thin films.
