Materials combining with device structures

Three-dimensional (3D) structuring of materials allows miniaturization of photonic devices, micro-(nano-)electromechanical systems (MEMS and NEMS), micro-total analysis systems (yu,-TAS), and other systems functioning on the micro- and nanoscale. Miniature photonic structures enable practical implementation of near-held manipulation, plasmonics, and photonic band-gap (PEG) materials, also known as photonic crystals (PhC) [1,2]. In micromechanics, fast response times are possible due to the small dimensions of moving parts. Femtoliter-level sensitivity of /x-TAS devices has been achieved due to minute volumes and cross-sections of channels and reaction chambers, in combination with high resolution and sensitivity of optical con-focal microscopy. Progress in all these areas relies on the 3D structuring of bulk and thin-fllm dielectrics, metals, and organic photosensitive materials. 

The huge versatility of the molecular structures combined with the unique properties makes liquid crystalline crowns interesting compounds for future research. Combination of selective ion complexation, ion conductivity, or even electric conductivity within the substituents gives rise to materials for use in biological or electronic devices. However, much has to be done to develop such systems and to understand fully the properties of liquid crystalline crowns. 

Polyoxometalates are important catalysts but they are also finding application in optical, electrical, and magnetic devices. Mixed-metal polyoxometalates with vanadium(V) in the polyoxoanion core confers enhanced properties to such structures, principally in their ability to form essentially infinite networks that can be utilized as coatings or as other thin film materials. Additionally, these materials have tunable electromagnetic and photochromic properties. In combination with organic polymers, so-called hybrid polymers, special electrochemical properties are conferred, making possible such electrical storage devices such as capacitors and batteries that utilize the redox properties of the polyoxometalate [7],... 

It is indeed intriguing and very attractive to think of photovoltaic elements based on thin plastic films with low cost but large areas, cut from rolls and deployed on permanent structures and surfaces. In order to fulfil these requirements, cheap production technologies for large scale coating must be applied to a low cost material class. Polymer photovoltaic cells hold the potential of such low cost cells. Flexible chemical tailoring of desired properties, combined with the cheap technology already well developed for all kinds of plastic thin film applications, precisely fulfill the above-formulated demands for cheap photovoltaic device production. The mechanical flexibility of plastic materials is welcome for all photovoltaic applications onto curved surfaces in indoor as well as outdoor applications. 

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