NanoFrazor Explore – Rapid Prototyping System for Nanostructures and Nanodevices

The NanoFrazor Explore is a unique tool designed specifically for the nanofrabrication of structures and patterns at the nanoscale. Its simple operation allows researchers to quickly produce high resolution nanosized geometries in a single step with unparalleled precision and accuracy and is suited to a wide range of applications.

Operating Principle

Most nanopatterning devices use Electron Beam Lithography or E-Beam Lithography. These systems use a focused beam of electrons to mill shapes and patterns into the surface of a material covered in an electron-sensitive material or “resist”.

The NanoFrazor on the other hand uses thermal Scanning Probe Lithography (t-SPL) technology. This employs a sharp tip mounted on a silicon cantilever, much like an AFM. By heating the tip using an integrated microheater, localised heating of an organic thermally responsive resist results in selective  and controlled decomposition into volatile species which evaporate. This makes the fabrication of nanosized features possible.

t-SPL technology has many advantages over EBL. Click here for more details.

Resolution

The nanopatterning resolution of the NanoFrazor is limited by the size of the tip.  As an example, the SLhp-09 tips can be smaller than 10nm at the apex. The nanosized features produced approach the dimensions of the tip itself.

The system has successfully produced well-separated, well defined parallel lines 3.5nm deep, with a pitch of 20nm.

Speed

High scan speeds are ensured with the purpose-designed piezo positioning system. This system also provides high positioning accuracy and next to zero out-of-plane movement across the entire scan range.

The cantilevers have an integrated electrostatic actuation mechanism. This provides fast and controlled vertical movement of the tip which is a prerequisite for high-speed patterning.

Closed Loop Lithography

The Closed Loop Lithography methodology  utilised in the NanoFrazor Explore make it extremely robust. The system also provides simultaneous inspection of the written pattern which in turn provides the operator with instantaneous feedback and quality control on the process.

Simultaneous inspection reduces both fabrication and subsequent inspection timeframes compared to other nanolithography techniques.

Key Features

Key Features of the NanoFrazor Explore include:

• area accessible by the tip – 100 x 100mm
• Modes – Write, Read or write+read (CLL mode)
• Correlation stitching
• Correlation overlay
• Integrated high resolution optical microscope
• Simple cantilever exchange
• User-friendly graphical user interface providing access to all basic functions
• Open software platform allowing user customisations (based on C++ and Igor Pro)
• Triple layer anti-acoustic housing
• Vibration isolation granite table with threads and space to mount additional equipment
• Integrated 19” rack allow with room for additional controllers
• Integrated gas supply making it independent of the lab environment
• Humidity and temperature monitoring
• Casters for easy relocation
• Small footprint – 127.5 x 77.6cm
• Attractively priced to suit tight university and R&D budgets

Brochure

Click here to download the SwissLitho NanoFrazor Explore brochure.