Graphene Can Make PCs and Smartphones Up to 1000 Times Faster

Researchers from the University of Sussex (UK) are working on a new way of using graphene (an allotropic variety of carbon) to manufacture processors. Currently, integrated circuits are made by etching the structure into a silicon wafer of sufficient thickness. But how to do it in a material that is only one atom thick (practically two-dimensional)? Turns out, a way has been found. Instead of etching electronic components, scientists from the University of Sussex intend to construct them by appropriately folding graphene layers.

This photo shows the scientists' achievement - a graphene surface with visible folds

The folds mechanically modify the electrical properties of the material and create a kind of graphene origami, whose fragments can function as transistors or logic gates. Properly assembled, they can be 100 times smaller than current chips and will contain much more elements. Graphene also has much better thermal conductivity - 480 W/mK, compared to silicon - 148 W/mK.

The new technology will make it possible to manufacture processors for PCs, laptops, and smartphones up to a thousand times more efficient, smaller, and not requiring much cooling. On the other hand, it is also a possibility to construct microscopic, highly energy-efficient systems e.g. for home automation or microsatellites. The production of graphene chips may be much more ecological since it does not require the use of additional materials and the whole process should take place in more accessible conditions (e.g. room temperature). Nevertheless, we still have to wait a bit longer for practical applications of the material. For now, we depend on silicon, which still has a certain reserve of possibilities.

The quantum way

Sycamore quantum computer. Source: Google

In addition to graphene, quantum computers are a way to increase the performance of integrated circuits. While early prototypes already exist (e.g. Google Sycamore) and are proving their capabilities, they are fraught with numerous drawbacks. These range from quantum decoherence to need for using superconductors and cooling computing units to very low temperatures. Of course, this comes at a high cost. With this, the widespread use of graphene CPUs seems nevertheless closer to realization.

• University of Sussex - official homepage
• Quantum Internet May Become a Fact After Latest Breakthrough

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