Location History:
- Des Plaines, IL (US) (2003 - 2012)
- St. Louis, MO (US) (2009 - 2012)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2003-2012
Title: Richard Piner: Innovator in Nanolithography
Introduction
Richard Piner is a notable inventor based in Des Plaines, IL (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of nanotechnology, particularly through his innovative methods in lithography. With a total of 8 patents to his name, Piner's work has advanced the capabilities of nanoscale device fabrication.
Latest Patents
One of Richard Piner's latest patents is focused on methods utilizing scanning probe microscope tips and products therefor or produced thereby. This invention introduces a lithographic method known as 'dip pen' nanolithography (DPN). The method involves several steps, including providing a substrate and a scanning probe microscope tip, coating the tip with a patterning compound and solvent to create a wet tip, and then contacting the coated tip with the substrate to apply the compound and produce a desired pattern. DPN utilizes a scanning probe microscope (SPM) tip as a 'pen,' a solid-state substrate as 'paper,' and molecules with a chemical affinity for the substrate as 'ink.' This technique allows for the direct writing of patterns consisting of a small collection of molecules in submicrometer dimensions, making it useful for fabricating various microscale and nanoscale devices. Additionally, the invention provides substrates patterned by DPN, including submicrometer combinatorial arrays, as well as kits, devices, and software for performing DPN. Another aspect of his invention includes a method for performing AFM imaging in air, which improves imaging quality by coating an AFM tip with a hydrophobic compound.
Career Highlights
Richard Piner is affiliated with Northwestern University, where he continues to contribute to research and innovation in nanotechnology. His work has garnered attention for its practical applications in various fields, including materials science and engineering.
Collaborations
Richard Piner has collaborated with esteemed colleagues such as Chad A Mirkin and Seunghun Hong, further enhancing the impact of his research through teamwork and shared expertise.
Conclusion
Richard Piner's innovative work in dip pen nanolithography and scanning probe microscopy has positioned him as a key figure in the advancement of nanotechnology. His contributions continue to influence the development of new technologies and applications in the field.