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1.5 Conclusions

In summary, the following topics have been introduced:  superconductivity, conducting polymers, self-assembled monolayers, and intercalation chemistry.  While these diverse topics may seem unrelated, their grouping here is important because each becomes an integral part of hybrid conductive polymer / high-T_c superconductor assemblies.  Additionally, self-assembled monolayers provide a template for modifying the interfacial properties of conducting polymer / high-temperature superconductor systems.

In this dissertation, the following new scientific questions are addressed:  What are the surface characteristics of high-temperature superconductor thin films and bulk pellets?  How can these surfaces be interfaced with organic conducting polymers?    Can self-assembled monolayers be applied to affect the interfacial characteristics of this composite structure?  Can nanoengineering principles produce a structure with alternating layers of conducting polymers and high-temperature superconductors?  What are the electronic interactions which occur when conductive polymer and superconductors are placed in intimate contact with one another?  Accordingly, this dissertation will examine these questions and provide insight into hybrid high-temperature superconductor / conducting polymer systems.