Another very interesting application of our high resolution, sub-micron heat transfer sensors is the measurement of heat transfer through individual molecules. The continuing miniturization of electronic components and the growing applications of electrically conducting, organic molecules gives rise to new questions about the properties of these molecules. Not only is the electrical conductivity of great interest, but also the thermal conductivity, which could enable direct thermal management in electronic components. For exactly this purpose, we are participating in a European joint research project with reserach groups from England, Finland, France and Switzerland. It investigates the possibilities for optimized cooling of individual components of integrated circuits, for example through the application of molecular thin films, which would present a whole new world of opportunities regarding energy-efficient operation of i.e. sensors.
Schematic representation of a measurement of an OPE3 molecule. Q dot is a heat current, T_A the tip temperature, T_K the temperature of the junction, T_F the sample temperature, R_th,sp the thermal resistance of the tip, and R_th,K the thermal resistance across the molecule and through the sample. From Philipp Wiesener's Master's Thesis.