Using Nanoscale Patterning to Control the Electronic Properties of Materials

Scientists have developed a new way to control the electronic properties of materials. They created a nanoscale pattern of holes on a thin film of metal oxide known as titania. This noticeably improved the flow of electrons and inhibited the flow of ions in the material. Just like ripples in a pond, the electrons traveling in waves interfered to create a unique pattern. This increased the ability of titania to conduct electricity. The researchers used direct imaging of the local electric fields to gain insights into this phenomenon.