Presenter: Dr.Nick Safai
Authors: Sean Bonilla, Nick Safai
Faculty Advisor: Dr.Nick Safai
Institution: Salt Lake Community College
This study is performed by a sophomore student in a project-based-program. It is hoped to be presented at the UCUR. The project addresses Nanoelectromechanical Systems(NEMS). The importance, usage and applications of NEMS are discussed and studied. As a result of involvement in this project-based program the student has now become more interested in the field of Nanoelectromechanical engineering, and its related/issues. He now sees this research as potential inspiration to pursue graduate studies/possibly a doctorate degree. Similar to Microelectromechanical systems(MEMS), NEMS apply the same concepts on the nanoscale. Using mechanical sensors, resonators, chemical sensors, actuators, pumps and motors, NEMS can effectively collect data on the atomic level. Lightweight and low power requirements add to the versatility of these systems being incorporated in the medical field and computational technologies. Chemical sensors can help target specific types of cells such as cancer and deliver drugs to treat patients. Carbon Nanotubes have better electric conductivity than copper because CNTs don't produce heat or resistance against electrons flowing through them, therefore increasing the speed of electronic devices. Actuators on the nanoscale can help change the surrounding area and create nanostructures by converting chemical signals to mechanical motion. Resonators are being developed to improve our instruments such as spectrometry and Finally motors on the nanoscale are highly controllable and don’t need fuel like engines in cars, they can convert energy such as acoustic, electrical, magnetic, chemical and optical. These motors can be used to travel in the human body. Current NEMS research is working to improve CNTs and perfect the various devices that have been developed regarding control and overall structure. Result of this study is that by involvement in this project-based-program the student under the Professors-direction has become more interested in the field of NEMS/the related fields/issues.