One class of materials under investigation have nanoscale dimensions (where a nanometer is ~50,000 times than the width of a human hair). Graphene, a component of graphite, the material used in pencil lead, has demonstrated potential as a silicon replacement. The electronic properties of graphene far surpass those of silicon and it represents real potential for future electronics.
Brenda Long was awarded her PhD in Chemistry from the UCD in 2003. She spent two years as a postdoctoral researcher in Italy during which time she was a visiting scientist at Harvard and MIT in Boston for 6 months. In 2005 she returned to MIT for 3 years. She is currently a research scientist in Tyndall National Institute, UCC studying nanomaterials and their potential as hybrid or replacement materials in future electronic technology.
The lecture will be delivered on Wednesday, February 16th 2011 at 8pm in Boole II Lecture Theatre. The lecture series is organised by Professor William Reville, Public Awareness of Science Officer, SEFS.
Full details of the lectures can be consulted by visiting website http://understandingscience.ucc.ie/Lecture2011.pdf
Admission is free, and as always, members of the public are invited to attend.
Picture: Dr Brenda Long