Abstract: Accordingly, the present invention provides a method of forming an electrode having reduced corrosion and water decomposition on a surface thereof. A substrate which has a conductive layer disposed thereon is provided and the conductive layer has an oxide layer with an exposed surface. The exposed surface of the oxide layer contacts a solution of an organic surface active compound in an organic solvent to form a protective layer of the organic surface active compound over the oxide layer. The protective layer has a thickness of from about 0.5 nm to about 5 nm and ranges therebetween depending on a chemical structure of the surface active compound.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of reducing corrosion and water decomposition on a surface of an electrode having a titanium nitride conductive layer disposed on a substrate and estimating extent of reduction thereof. The electrode is immersed into a solution containing a hydroxyl-functional compound. Thereafter, a voltage is applied to the titanium nitride conductive layer of the electrode. The extent of oxidation of the titanium nitride conductive layer is correlated with the extent of formation of oxide of titanium nitride and/or the extent of oxidation of the titanium nitride conductive layer is correlated with the increase of surface roughness. The extent of water decomposition is correlated with formation of hydrogen and oxygen bubbles.

Abstract: Apparatus, system, and methods are provided for utilizing piezoelectric material for controlling a polymer through a nanopore. A reservoir is formed filled with conductive fluid. A membrane is formed that separates the reservoir. A nanopore is formed through the membrane. The membrane comprises electrical conductive layers, piezoelectric layers, and insulating layers. The piezoelectric layers are operative to control a size of the nanopore for clamping/releasing a polymer as well as to control the thickness of part of the membrane when a voltage is applied to the piezoelectric layers. Combinations of clamping/releasing the polymer and changing the thickness of part of the membrane can move a polymer through the nanopore at any electrically controlled speed and also stretch or break a polymer in the nanopore.

Abstract: Apparatus, system, and method are provided for cutting a linear charged polymer inside a nanopore. A first voltage is applied to create an electric field in a first direction. A second voltage is applied to create an electric field in a second direction, and the first direction is opposite to the second direction. When the electric field in the first direction and the electric field in the second direction are applied to a linear charged polymer inside a nanopore, the linear charged polymer is cut at a location with predetermined accuracy.

Abstract: Apparatus, system, and methods are provided for utilizing piezoelectric material for controlling a polymer through a nanopore. A reservoir is formed filled with conductive fluid. A membrane is formed that separates the reservoir. A nanopore is formed through the membrane. The membrane comprises electrical conductive layers, piezoelectric layers, and insulating layers. The piezoelectric layers are operative to control a size of the nanopore for clamping/releasing a polymer as well as to control the thickness of part of the membrane when a voltage is applied to the piezoelectric layers. Combinations of clamping/releasing the polymer and changing the thickness of part of the membrane can move a polymer through the nanopore at any electrically controlled speed and also stretch or break a polymer in the nanopore.