Order in Thin Organic Films

This book describes the various methods currently used to deposit highly ordered organic films, and the physical techniques employed in characterising their properties. Thin organic films are the subject of a great deal of research, motivated by their potential application in micro-electronics. Existing applications, such as in the photo-lithographic production of silicon micro-circuits, involve relatively disordered films. However, higher degrees of order and the use of more complex molecules could lead to systems in which the organic molecules themselves become the active electronic devices. Beginning with a discussion of the necessary basic physics and chemistry, the book proceeds to a description of the main topics of current research in this field. The Langmuir-Blodgett technique, self-assembly, and methods of film deposition exploiting the ordered structure of mesophases are discussed. Separate chapters are devoted to the properties and computer modelling of both liquid crystals and films at the air/water interface. Order in biomembranes is also discussed. The book is aimed at those graduate students and established research workers with an interest in the physics and chemistry of these fascinating structures.