Construction of one-dimensional metal nanostructures with chemically modified DNA templates

One strategy to overcome size-limitations inherent to state-of-the-art lithographical fabrication of nanoelectronics bases on the development of single electron devices which retain their scalability down to the molecular level. In these devices single charge carriers can be handled by exploitation of charging (Coulomb) effects in small metal islands, such as small metal nanoparticles addressed through tunnel junctions. While huge advances have been made in the chemical synthesis of small, defined metal nanoparticles the reliable contact fabrication with high integration densities and the combination with classically fabricated architectures still remains a demanding task. Therefore the directed self-assembly of metal nanoparticles seems optimal for the construction of single-electron transistors and their integration into electronic circuitry. The objective of this work was to gain a deeper understanding of the formation of DNA templated one-dimensional metal structures by detailed AFM and STEM analysis. Therefore two general concepts were pursued: The linear arrangement of azide functionalised gold nanoparticles and Continuously metallised, electrically conductive nanowire structures.