Artificial materials for more efficient electronics

Scanning transmission electron micrscopy image of superlattice consisting of an alternating sequence of 5 atomic unit cells of neodymium nickelate ( blue ) and 5 atomic unit cells of samarium nickelate ( yellow ). Bernard Mundet / EPFL - The discovery of an unprecedented physical effect in a new artificial material marks a significant milestone in the lengthy process of developing "made-to-order" materials and more energy-efficient electronics. We are surrounded by electronic devices. Transistors are used to power telephones, computers, televisions, hi-fi systems and game consoles as well as cars, airplanes and the like. Today's silicon-based electronics, however, consume a substantial and ever-increasing share of the world's energy. A number of researchers are exploring the properties of materials that are more complex than silicon but that show promise for the electronic devices of tomorrow - and that are less electricity-hungry. In keeping with this approach, scientists from the University of Geneva have been working in collaboration with the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL), the University of Zurich, the Flatiron Institute of New York and the University of Liège.