Spin-Polarized Transport in Mesoscopic Devices

Abstract : We have fabricated 2-3 nm radius aluminum nanoparticles as evidenced by distinct Coulomb Blockade steps in the linear conductance. We have fit these Coulomb Blockade steps to a theoretical model based on the Orthodox Theory of single electron tunneling in order to determine the size and junction characteristics of these nanoparticles. Using the same fabrication technique, we have produced 2-3 nm radius 0.01% iron in copper nanoparticles. By investigating these dilute magnetic alloy nanoparticles, we intended to verify the results of Thimm et al. concerning the complex interplay between spin-polarized tunneling and finite-size effects in a 'Kondo box'.