Chinese researchers have pioneered a novel method for producing crystals, significantly enhancing the controllability of their structures. This breakthrough, detailed in a recent Science journal article, promises to revolutionize modern technology sectors such as computing, communications, aviation, and laser technology.
Crystals play a crucial role in the functionality of today's advanced electronics. The new production method aims to boost the computing power of chips and pave the way for a new generation of electronic and photonic integrated circuits.
Traditionally, large-scale crystal production involves layering atoms \"bottom-up\" on the surface of small crystal particles. This approach is constrained by the need for precise atom type and arrangement to successfully form high-quality crystals.
\"When the number of atoms increases, the atomic arrangement gradually becomes uncontrolled, and impurities and defects accumulate, affecting both the purity and quality of the crystal,\" explained Liu Kaihui, a professor at the School of Physics of Peking University.
To overcome these challenges, the research team developed a method that precisely controls the atomic arrangement, allowing crystal growth rates to accelerate to 50 layers per minute and achieve up to 15,000 layers. This meticulous control ensures that each layer remains parallel and defect-free, vastly improving the structural integrity of the crystals.
The team successfully applied this method to produce seven types of two-dimensional crystals. \"The monolayer thickness of these two-dimensional crystals is only 0.7 nanometers,\" Liu noted. \"When integrated into transistors, this can significantly enhance chip integration.\"
Furthermore, Liu highlighted that the increased density of transistors on a fingernail-sized chip could substantially boost computing power. Beyond computing, these crystals have potential applications in infrared frequency conversion of light, which could advance the development of ultra-thin optical chips.
Reference(s):
Chinese researchers develop novel method to produce crystals
cgtn.com
