Graphene-Based Functional Structures and Nanostructures

The first project, which will shortly begin, investigates Graphene-based functional structures and nanostructures for novel gaseous detectors. The unique properties of two-dimensional materials such as graphene as well as carbon-based nanostructures including nanotubes, nanowires and quantum dots offer exciting possibilities for next-generation detector systems including wide-band photosensors. In the field of gaseous radiation detectors, these materials can be exploited to extend the sensitivity to wide-energy ranges of incident radiation, selectively influence charge production and transport processes and extend the longevity in challenging operational conditions. In the context of this doctoral student project in the CERN EP-DT Gas Detector Development team, we propose to pursue next-generation gaseous detector concepts taking advantage of novel materials and nanostructures. The research aims at exploiting graphene and nanomaterials for next-generation gaseous detectors including broadband gaseous photodetectors, robust precise timing detectors and graphene-enhanced ion-backflow suppression, which holds great potential for gaseous Time Projection Chambers (TPCs). In addition, potential synergies with other CERN groups working on graphene, Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) and nanostructures will be explored.