Researchers grow semiconductors on graphene
1 min read
Researchers in Norway have been able to grow semiconductor nanowires on atomically thin sheets of graphene - a breakthrough which they claim could fundamentally change the semiconductor industry by introducing graphene as a preferred substrate for many applications.
According to Helge Weman, a professor at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), the new patented hybrid material offers excellent optoelectronic properties and combines low cost, transparency, conductivity and flexibility. "We do not see this as a new product," he noted. "This is a template for a new production method for semiconductor devices. We expect solar cells and leds to be first in line when future applications are planned."
Prof Wemen claims the electrode fits perfectly with the production machinery already in existence and believes the device could be an enabler for everything from advanced 3D integrated circuits built on graphene to flexible, self-powered consumer electronics.
"Semiconductors grown on graphene could become the basis for new types of device systems, and could transform the semiconductor industry by introducing graphene as a preferred substrate for many applications," he concluded.
More details about the hybrid graphene material can be found in the video below.
