Exclusive device to be used at YSU, opening new horizons in materials science

As part of the "Competition for the Selection of Purchase Requests for Scientific Instruments/Equipment to Upgrade Scientific Centers with Modern Technology" announced by the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports of the Republic of Armenia, YSU Center for Semiconductor Devices and Nanotechnologies has been equipped with this unique and powerful device, which offers solutions to a range of challenges.

Dr. Mikayel Aleksanyan, Director of the center and Professor at YSU Physics Institute, explains that the equipment purchased from Thermo Fisher Scientific allows the study of a sample with minimal damage to its crystalline and structural components. The device makes it possible to detect the presence of nearly all elements in the sample, record slight changes in electron binding energies, and obtain valuable information about the atomic bond states of the material's components.

It also enables the determination of the material’s surface composition (and, if necessary, the surface of the sample under investigation) by cleaning undesired contaminants through ionized argon flows. The device can quantitatively assess the number of elements on the material's surface and measure the nanofilm profile to determine its actual thickness. The equipment requires no special or complex preparation of samples and can determine the material's work function. The measurement chamber demands an ultra-high vacuum environment, so the device must always be turned on. 

Previously, such research was carried out through collaboration with other organizations and centers. Due to the lack of such opportunities in Armenia, the research team addressed this issue through collaboration with international partners from countries such as the Czech Republic, Switzerland, Hungary, and others.

"There is no such system in Armenia. We have come a long way to successfully bring this equipment to YSU. After negotiations with Thermo Fisher Scientific, the company actively participated in the tender process for purchasing the equipment, which resulted in significant savings. To assist with the installation and commissioning of the device, the company has sent expert Omar Alshuwayi to Armenia. After the work is completed, the expert will conduct a 2-3 day training session for our young researchers," said Aleksanyan. 

The research teams at YSU Physics Institute’s Center for Semiconductor Devices and Nanotechnologies are involved in synthesizing various types of nanostructures, based on which they develop sensors, next-generation optical devices, and other nanosystems.

"To enhance our equipment's performance, we must conduct comprehensive materials science research. This includes analyzing the shape, composition, atomic bonds, crystalline structure of nanostructures, and the thickness of nanofilms. Without materials science research to accompany scientific progress, studies aimed at publishing articles, presenting at conferences, and obtaining patents will not be taken seriously. The nanosystems we develop require thorough, multi-faceted research, which is why advanced equipment like this is essential," explains the center's director. He also notes that the device will serve not only the center but the entire YSU Physics Institute and the scientific community of Armenia. In the near future, systems will be developed to maximize the research capabilities of this advanced equipment.

This device will serve not only as a key research tool but also as an excellent opportunity for students to engage in scientific work. In the future, upper-level undergraduate and PhD students will have the chance to participate in important projects and deepen their knowledge. 

After final testing of the equipment and the training of researchers, research teams will begin their research activities. 

The new equipment is of great importance for both YSU and the Armenian scientific community, as it creates favorable conditions for new projects and in-depth scientific research.