Project R-15950

Simulation-informed engineering of heteroatom-doped diaphite nanostructures for microelectronic power applications (Research)

The research addresses critical energy storage challenges in power electronics through the development of heteroatom-doped diaphite nanostructures, combining simulation-guided design with experimental synthesis. The investigation targets fundamental limitations in current storage systems, specifically focusing on charging speed and power density constraints through diamond-graphene hybrid materials. Diaphite engineered structures integrate sp³-hybridized diamond and sp²-hybridized graphite nanodomains, achieving conductivity of 8 × 10⁻⁴ Ω·m with precisely controlled charge carrier concentrations through heteroatom doping. The methodology implements quantum mechanical simulations coupled with machine learning algorithms to optimize microwave plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposition synthesis parameters. The approach utilizes deuterium-rich microwave plasma environments specifically targeting (111) face formation, building upon successful implementations in boron-doped diamond synthesis. Advanced substrate engineering through UV and CO2 laser patterning on various conductive materials enables heterogeneous plasma sub-region control for enhanced diaphite nucleation. The research leverages complementary expertise through collaboration between GdańskTech's electronic materials engineering, Hasselt University's power systems optimization, and Caltech's advanced simulation capabilities.

01 January 2026 - 31 December 2029