microelectronics tagged posts

Imitating the functioning of neurons using semiconductor materials. While the optimization of conventional microelectronics is slowly reaching its physical limits, nature offers us a blueprint how information can be processed and stored efficiently: our own brain. Scientists have now successfully imitated the functioning of neurons using semiconductor materials.

Especially activities in the field of artificial intelligence, like teaching robots to walk or precise automatic image recognition, demand ever more powerful, yet at the same time more economical computer chips...

Protection against electromagnetic interference

Researchers have succeeded in applying aerogels to microelectronics: Aerogels based on cellulose nanofibers can effectively shield electromagnetic radiation over a wide frequency range – and they are unrivaled in terms of weight.

Electric motors and electronic devices generate electromagnetic fields that sometimes have to be shielded in order not to affect neighboring electronic components or the transmission of signals. High-frequency electromagnetic fields can only be shielded with conductive shells that are closed on all sides...

Berkeley Lab researchers have experimentally confirmed strong in-plane anisotropy in thermal conductivity along the zigzag (ZZ) and armchair (AC) directions of single-crystal black phosphorous nanoribbons. Credit: Junqiao Wu, Berkeley Lab

Researchers have confirmed single-crystal black phosphorous nanoribbons display a strong in-plane anisotropy in thermal conductivity, up to a factor of 2, along the zigzag and armchair directions of single-crystal black phosphorus nanoribbons. An experimental revelation that should facilitate the future application of this highly promising material to electronic, optoelectronic and thermoelectric devices.

“Imagine the lattice of black phosphorus as a 2D network of balls connected with springs, in which the network is softer along one direction of the plan...