Many materials can be classified as electronic materials, including conductive, insulating and semi-conductive metals, ceramics, and polymers. Thin films are highly engineered to tight specifications for micro-electronic applications. WSU researchers use our “clean room” (part of the Center for Materials Research) and other fabrication facilities to design and construct novel devices and develop manufacturing strategies that optimize the performance of micro- and nano-structured materials. In addition, researchers analyze microelectronics packaging and the structure and performance of lead-free solders for interconnecting devices. WSU is also investigating chip-level interconnect manufacturing to avoid electromigration failures.

In our WSU laboratories, we design and fabricate II-VI semiconductors for sensor applications, photo-voltaic devices, and laser materials by using controlled doping of compounds for optimal performance. We are investigating nano devices and nano-structured materials, including carbon-based particles, tubes, and 2D structures for a wide number of electronics applications.

Topics in Electronic Materials

• Near-interface effects in multi-component materials, with emphasis on materials for microelectronics
• Thin film and IC interconnect structure/properties relationships
• Electronic transport

Faculty in Electronic Materials