Novel Method for Making Nanodot Arrays Using a Cage-like Protein

Abstract

We have developed a new method using protein supramolecules to build quantum devices. In this paper, the fabrication of an array of quantum nanodots using a cage-like protein is described. A hexagonal array of iron-loaded ferritin molecules (with a diameter of 6 nm) was made on a silicon wafer. This array was treated with ozone to remove the protein shell, leaving an array of ferritin cores with a density of about 1012 dots per square centimeter. The elimination of the protein shell was confirmed by Fourier transform IR spectrophotometry (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Furthermore, the metal cores were made conductive with heat treatment under hydrogen. The order of the array was not disturbed throughout the treatment. This process named "bio nano process" is expected to lead to a new approach for the development of nanoscale devices.