Dielectric properties of L-B films of haemoglobin

The permittivity assumed in the calculation of the monolayer thickness to be consistent with the known dimensions⁴ of 4.5 × 4.5 × 6.5 nm, is higher than the usually quoted value⁵. Before we can have confidence in this conclusion, a direct measurement of monolayer thickness will have to be made. The activation energy of 0.67 eV for the low-frequency relaxation process is very close to that of ice-like structures corresponding to the energy of 3 hydrogen bonds⁶. But at this stage, the possibility of charge carriers being injected is not ruled out. The high-frequency loss process is complicated by the presence of a series-resistance effect. Perhaps it could be better understood if the alumina layer can be eliminated by the use of other electrodes; but deposition of haemoglobin onto gold has not been found possible.