Thomas Owen Mitchell

Title: Thomas Owen Mitchell: Innovator in Nanotechnology

Introduction

Thomas Owen Mitchell is a prominent inventor based in Redwood City, CA (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of nanotechnology, holding a total of 4 patents. His work focuses on the directed growth of nanotubes, which has important applications in various technological advancements.

Latest Patents

Mitchell's latest patents include innovative methods for fabricating nanostructures. One of his notable inventions involves the directed growth of nanotubes on a catalyst. In this process, a nanostructure is created using charged particle deposition to apply a catalyst onto a substrate. A charged particle beam is directed to a specific location on the substrate, where a beam-activated precursor gas is also introduced. For instance, a nickel dot can be selectively deposited onto a substrate by utilizing a charged particle beam to decompose a nickel-containing precursor gas. Subsequently, a carbon nanotube can be grown on the nickel dot, with its diameter conforming to the size of the nickel dot.

Another significant patent by Mitchell describes a method for fabricating a nanotube probe tip, particularly for use in atomic force microscopy. This involves creating a moderately sharply peaked support structure, which is then cut or flattened to achieve a substantially flat end measuring about 20 to 200 nm across. The support structure may be formed by etching a conical end into a silica optical fiber. Nickel or other catalyzing metals, such as iron, are directionally sputtered onto the flat end and sloped sidewalls of the support structure. The nickel is then anisotropically etched to remove all but at least 15 nm on the flat end, forming a small nickel dot. A nanotube is subsequently grown with the nickel catalyzing its growth, ensuring that only a single nanotube forms on the nickel dot, with its diameter conforming to the size of the nickel dot.

Career Highlights

Thomas Owen Mitchell is currently associated with FEI Company, where he continues to push the boundaries of nanotechnology. His innovative approaches have garnered attention in the scientific community, contributing to advancements in various applications.

Collaborations

Mitchell has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Randall Grafton Lee and Johannes Jacobus Lambertus Mulders. Their combined expertise has further enhanced the impact of their work in the field of nanotechnology.

Conclusion