Abstract

The recent advances in electronic technologies are geared towards a combination of continued miniaturization in device components and their integration onto unconventional platforms. These efforts are aimed towards achieving electronic devices with various form factors and novel functionalities which are unattainable from traditional devices. Among these envisioned 'futuristic' technologies, electronic devices which are mechanically reconfigurable and operable under harsh operational conditions in the form of stretching, twisting and folding offer tremendous amount of unparalleled opportunities. This dissertation studies two-dimensional (2D) transition metal dichalcogenide (TMDs), a distinct class of materials with peculiar optical, electrical and mechanical properties for mechanically reconfigurable electronics. Owing to their two-dimensional geometry, hence small thickness and extremely large mechanical tolerance, they offer a unique set of advantages unattainable with conventional three-dimensional silicon (Si). We used a novel chemical vapor deposition (CVD) technique to synthesize large-area ( > cm2) 2D TMDs of different compositions onto various rigid and polymeric substrates. Additionally, we developed viable green transfer approached based on water to integrated them onto secondary target substrates, further extending their applicability. In particular, we configured viable strain-engineering concepts to three-dimensionally architect 2D TMD layers into tailored geometries, which can ensure high mechanical stability accompanying well preserved and tunable electrical/optical properties. Moreover, we investigated the strain variable and invariable electrical, optical, mechanical, and structural properties of these materials, explained using simulations and experimental demonstrations. Finally, by combining the novel synthetic and transfer techniques with strain engineered 2D-3D modulations of the TMD layers, we demonstrated several applications of 2D TMDs for futuristic electronics, including ultra-stretchable conductors and transistors for electronic components, wearable heaters and smart tattoos for healthcare, transparent conductors for smart windows, and electromechanical actuators for soft robotics. These studies are part of a new paradigm shift using creative growth and patterning techniques for the development of uniquely mechanically reconfigurable devices.

Notes

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Graduation Date

2021

Semester

Spring

Advisor

Jung, YeonWoong

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

College

College of Engineering and Computer Science

Department

Electrical and Computer Engineering

Degree Program

Electrical Engineering

Format

application/pdf

Identifier

CFE0008511; DP0024187

URL

https://purls.library.ucf.edu/go/DP0024187

Language

English

Release Date

May 2021

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Access Status

Doctoral Dissertation (Open Access)

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