Development of 3-D focused-ion-beam (FIB) etching methods for nano- and micro-technology application

We have developed a 3-D FIB etching method for making 3-D micro-devices and sensors based on nano- and micro-technology. We fabricated single electron tunneling (SET) devices on a Bi-2201 single crystal whisker. We also describe 3-D FIB etching methods using layered single crystal whiskers as examples. These methods offer simple in situ etching and evaporation processes in FIB systems for making a micro area of stacks.