ORCID

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3705-8818

Date of Award

4-23-2025

Author's School

Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

Author's Department

Physics

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Degree Type

Dissertation

Abstract

We investigate high-frequency microwave spectroscopy as a probe of the electronic structure of graphene, focusing on compressibility, magnetic response, and the potential for detection applications. Graphene is a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice, exhibiting unique electronic properties due to its band structure and reduced dimensionality. While traditional compressibility measurements rely on low-frequency capacitance techniques, this thesis explores a high-frequency approach using superconducting resonators to probe the compressibility of graphene in the GHz regime. Originally conceived as a means to examine the diamagnetic response, the method faces fundamental limitations due to resistive losses, revealing key challenges for GHz impedance measurements. Nevertheless, building on this approach, we investigate the potential utility of graphene as a broadband photodetector, leveraging the temperature sensitivity of its impedance. We present numerical calculations, microwave simulations, experimental setups, and improvements in sample fabrication techniques for these measurements. In separate efforts, we summarize contributions made via collaborative work on boron vacancy centers (\(\mathrm{V}_{\mathrm{B}}^-\)) in isotopically purified hexagonal boron nitride for improved methods of defect quantum sensing with enhanced coherence time and nuclear spin polarization. We also provide an in-depth discussion of relevant fabrication processes and techniques.

Language

English (en)

Chair and Committee

Erik Henriksen

Committee Members

Chong Zu; Erik Henriksen; Kater Murch; Mark Lawrence; Xi Wang; Zohar Nussinov

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