Low temperature (LN2) and UHV mechanically controllable break junction setup to study quantum electrical transport of atomic-size metal nanowire

Abstract

Reliable metal nanowire studies requires experimental stringent conditions, as clean samples and environment. In this sense, we have designed and built a dedicated instrument to study electrical transport properties of atomic-size metal contacts based on the mechanically controlled break junction technique, operating at ultra-high-vacuum conditions. Here we describe the chosen setup, its implementation and performance. © 2008 IOP Publishing Ltd.