Communications of the ACM
Spinning Electrons Could Lead to New Electronics
Graphene and its unique characteristics could transform electronics and expand physicists' understanding of quantum phenomena.
Credit: University of Manchester
Graphene and its unique characteristics could transform electronics and expand physicists' understanding of quantum phenomena.
Its characteristics include incredible strength, flexibility, conductivity, and transparency for use in applications such as water filtration and cancer drug delivery systems.
One of the most promising properties of graphene is the pseudospin, or the electrons' freedom of movement, which determines the probability to locate electrons on neighboring carbon atoms. The potential to control this mobility could enable the development of new electronic applications.
Researchers at the University of Manchester have demonstrated how electrons with well-controlled pseudospin can be injected into layers of graphene.
"Our experiments offer an unprecedented control over the quantum state of the electrons in graphene," notes Manchester's Sir Kostya Novoselov.
The researchers say the electrons' movement can then be controlled by applying a strong magnetic field parallel to the graphene layers, and they are optimistic about the possible applications of the material.
"We hope that the opportunity to control the pseudospin and chirality of electrons in graphene will expand the range of quantum phenomena studied in this remarkable material," says Manchester professor Vladimir Fal'ko.
From University of Manchester
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