Scientists Use Scotch Tape to Create Diamond Films

Why in the news?

Scientists developed a simple, scalable method using Scotch tape to create ultra-thin, flexible diamond films, which could revolutionize quantum devices and electronics.

Scientists Use Scotch Tape to Create Diamond Films

Discovery and Methodology Behind Ultra-Thin Diamond Film:

  • Accidental Discovery: The breakthrough in creating ultra-thin diamond films was an accidental result of electrical engineer Jing Jixiang’s experiment at the University of Hong Kong. While handling Scotch tape, he accidentally peeled away a layer of diamond, sparking further research.
  • Innovative Process: The team started by implanting nano-sized diamonds into a silicon wafer, then exposed the wafer to methane gas at high temperatures, forming a thin diamond sheet. The challenge was to extract this thin layer without damaging it. Using Scotch tape, they successfully peeled away a continuous layer of diamond, creating a free-standing ultra-thin diamond film.

Key Properties and Applications of the Diamond Films:

  • Ultra-Thin and Flexible: The diamond sheets produced were extremely thin (less than a micrometre thick) and smooth, allowing for precise etching techniques typically used in silicon chip manufacturing. Additionally, the films were flexible, making them suitable for elastic strain engineering and deformation sensing.
  • Potential for Quantum Devices: Diamonds have unique electronic properties, being good insulators but also allowing electrons to move efficiently at certain energies. This makes them ideal for quantum devices and sensor technology, offering potential advantages over traditional silicon-based chips.

Significance and Future Prospects:

  • Scalable Production: The method of using Scotch tape for diamond film extraction offers a simple, reliable, and scalable technique for producing ultra-flat, flexible diamond membranes, which could revolutionize various industries.
  • Promising for Quantum and Electronics: This development is expected to enhance quantum devices and high-performance electronics, especially in areas where diamonds are used as sensors, offering greater control and efficiency in device design.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times