Physics

The interests of the Brooks group are twofold: first, to understand organic "small molecule" crystalline materials in terms of structure and function; and second, to consider if and how such materials might eventually enter the realm of device applicability. This area, one of the most interdisciplinary fields of research in contemporary materials science, embraces chemistry, physics, engineering, biology, theory and computation. Activities therefore involve a relatively large number of subjects including fundamental physical and electronic structure, single component and charge transfer complexes, physical properties of single crystalline materials, thin film and single crystal electronic and photonic devices, functional materials, and bio-inspired structures. The point of view is that of an experimental physicist, and in this context, challenges and possible routes to further advances in the development and utilization of organic small molecule materials are considered for both fundamental science and applied technological purposes. J. Brooks (Physics)

Figure: Gallery of molecular crystals and polymers. From the top, left to right: TTF-TCNQ and Per2[Au(mnt)2]( charge density wave systems), BEDT-TTF (an organic conductor donor for two dimensional systems), Pentacene (an organic semiconductor), TIPS-Pentacene (a functionalized organic semiconductor), TMTSF (an organic conductor donor for one dimensional systems), (BETS)2GaCl4 (an organic superconductor), (TMTSF)2ClO4 ( an organic superconductor and field induced spin density wave system), Polyanaline-coated polyester fibre ( a conducting polymer system that exhibits coulomb gap behavior). Linear dimensions ~ 1 mm. Photos by Mike Davidson and Adam Rainey, Optical Microscopy Group, National High Magnetic Field Laboratory.