by
Susan Helen Moran
A new type of wire will lead to yet another decrease in the size of Smart devices, computer components, and network hardware. Nanowires–teeny tiny wires measuring about 100 to 200 nanometer–will make much smaller, more efficient, and more compact electronic devices and networks possible.
Researchers at Harvard University recently combined basic nanowires with silicon atoms in a vacuum. This produced a new type with never-before-seen conductivity and functionality, according to Peter Reuell, a staff writer with the Harvard Gazette.
The silicon atoms adhered to the nanowires forming a crystalline structure. The scientists found they could manipulate the space between the structures. Then they discovered that these wires not only can conduct one, but more than one spectrum at a time. The wavelengths for both blue light and green light can travel along the same tiny wire. Today, two large, separate wires are used to conduct these: the one that conducts blue light best is smaller than the diameter that conducts green light. (Previous research showed that different diameter wires absorb different wavelengths of light. For example, very small diameters absorb blue light well, and larger diameters absorb green light.)
This discovery could change the hardware and space required by private companies and Government agencies to transmit digital voice and data communications from point to point. The new nanowire also can conduct the same amount of infrared as a wire 100 times the size.
The scientific researchers, Dr. Makin and Dr. Day, are able to “tune” the distance between the lobes on the nanowires, as well as the cross-section of the wires to produce rounded, square-type and platelet-like shaped wires. Varying the temperature inside the vacuum is one key to controlling the structures. The other is varying the pressure key. Each shape has different properties. More research to explore these is planned. Studies will look at how the new wires might conduct thermal conductance, electrical conductance, and magnetic properties.
For more information, see the journal Nature Nanotechnology.
New Nanowires Could Shrink Devices by 50 to 100 Percent