Semiconductors ● Thermoelectricity ● Piezoelectricity

Remo A. Masut is an associate professor in the Department of Engineering Physics who is specialized in semiconductor physics, specifically epitaxy of quantum heterostructures and magnetic semiconductors.

He was formerly in charge of the Organometallic Vapour Phase Epitaxy Laboratory. Currently, he is contributing to development of thermoelectric and piezoelectric materials, and is the head of the Laboratory of X-rays and measurements of electrical transport.
 

 (514) 340-4711 extension 4310

The goal of Professor Masut’s thermoelectricity research team is development of thermoelectric alloys using original methods of synthesis (mechanical alloying followed by hot extrusion).  These materials are found in Peltier-effect cooling modules, which are used in systems that require cooling of electronic components (e.g., lasers, computer hardware). Alternatively, the revers effect can be used to generate electricity when the modules are subjected to a temperature gradient. These TE generators are used in satellites, for heat energy recovery in industrial kilns, and in vehicle exhaust systems, for example.

Lastly, Professor Masut’s research in the field of piezoelectricity focuses on development of alloys using aluminum nitride (AlN) and zinc oxide (ZnO) in thin-film states for use in the microelectronics industry and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). The team is working to enhance the piezoelectric properties of thin films by introducing exotic elements into AlN and ZnO alloys.