Low Temperature Near-Field Scanning Optical Microscope for Characterization of Semiconductor Microstructures.

Abstract : This DURIP grant funded the capital equipment for a project to design and build a low-temperature, high magnetic field, near-field scanning optical microscope for the purpose of characterizing semiconductor nanostructures. All of the equipment necessary to build and operate this microscope has been purchased. The microscope has been completely designed, machined, and assembled. The need for robust, low-temperature, inertial motion has motivated us to invent a new kind of inertial motion motor. A prototype motor has been produced and is robust enough (i.e. drive voltage less than 5 V at room temperature) for low temperature operation. The 15/17 T superconducting magnet and cryogenic housing has been delivered and the facility to support this system is complete. We expect Oxford instruments to perform a final installation during the month of August.