The Future of Computer Chips: Würzburg Physicists Develop Nanometre-Sized Light Antenna
Physicists from Würzburg present a nanometre-sized light antenna with electrically modulated surface properties — a breakthrough that could pave the way for faster computer chips.
Today’s computers are limited by the speed of their semiconductor components, operating at a maximum usable frequency of a few gigahertz. This limitation has led to the need for multiple chips to divide computing tasks, as individual chip speed cannot be increased further. However, a new breakthrough in the form of nanometre-sized light antennas may change the game, potentially making computer chips up to 1000 times faster by using light (photons) instead of electricity (electrons).
Plasmonic resonators, also known as “antennas for light,” are metal structures at the nanoscale that interact with both light and electrons. Depending on their geometry, they can interact with different frequencies of light. However, the challenge lies in effectively modulating these resonators to create fast light-based switches.
Charged Optical Antennas: University of Würzburg Breaks New Ground
A research team at Julius-Maximilians-Universität (JMU) Würzburg in collaboration with Southern Denmark University (SDU) has made a significant advancement in light antenna modulation. Through electrically controlled modulation, the team has paved the way for ultra-fast active plasmonics and faster computer chips. Their groundbreaking experiments have been published in the journal Science Advances.
By focusing on changing the surface properties of a single gold nanorod resonator, the team achieved electrically controlled modulation. This achievement was made possible through sophisticated nanofabrication techniques using helium ion beams and gold nanocrystals. This unique fabrication method, developed at JMU, was crucial in detecting the effects on the resonator’s surface.
Surprising Quantum Effects
The researchers discovered unexpected quantum effects in their measurements, challenging classical descriptions of optical antennas. The introduction of a semi-classical model helped reconcile these effects, advancing the understanding of surface interactions. This new model allows for the deliberate design of antennas to manipulate specific quantum effects.
New Field of Research with Great Potential
In addition to faster computer chips, the researchers envision applications in optical modulators and investigations into catalytic processes. This new technology has the potential to provide insights into energy conversion and storage technologies.