New system uses two-dimensional structures to guide
plasmonic waves at ultrashort wavelength, offering a new platform for memory
and computer chips.
Researchers at MIT have proposed a new system that combines
ferroelectric materials — the kind often used for data storage — with graphene,
a two-dimensional form of carbon known for its exceptional electronic and
mechanical properties. The resulting hybrid technology could eventually lead to
computer and data-storage chips that pack more components in a given area and
are faster and less power-hungry.
The new system works by controlling waves called surface
plasmons. These waves are oscillations of electrons confined at interfaces
between materials; in the new system the waves operate at terahertz
frequencies. Such frequencies lie between those of far-infrared light and
microwave radio transmissions, and are considered ideal for next-generation
computing devices.