Self-assembled multicomponent systems for nano-sized electronics

Multicomponent self-assembled systems are the key ingredients in the integration and assembly of electronic components for nano-sized electronics. In this proposal, we aim to synthesize and characterize three different types of such systems, namely organic-organic, organic-inorganic and organic-bio based constructs to ultimately create hetero p-n junctions, one of the key elements in electronic devices. In the organic-organic constructs, supramolecular axial hetero-fibers will be prepared stepwise from -conjugated, semiconducting building blocks. In the second building process, hybrid helical wires based on inorganic nanorods and -conjugated oligomers will be constructed in which the inorganic part also contributes to the semiconductive properties. In the third building process, phages will be used as a template for the assembly of monodisperse fibers, having a specific number of -conjugated building blocks. The ultimate goal is the construction of complex p-n junctions by self-assembled systems composed of organic, biological and/or inorganic components. An important part of the characterization will be the understanding of the mechanisms of assembly, and the stability and dynamics of multicomponent systems since this is essential for the rational design and building of these complex structures. It will be of crucial importance to know at which stage of the synthetic pathway each component can be built in.