In Nano-Science Center at the University of Copenhagen, researchers have found a novel nanotechnology-based platform to develop molecule-based electronic components through graphene, which is a good electrical conductor and 200 times stronger than steel. They have also dealt with the challenges faced by researchers globally over the past 10 years.
The method of chemically producing large flakes of graphene material has been published in the journal Advanced Materials. This method has been developed by nano-chemist researchers at the department of Chemistry.
Kasper Nørgaard, a nano-chemist, who is working with Chinese and Danish colleagues at the Nano-Science Center, stated that they could produce large flakes of graphene material, which can be used as components within molecule-based electronics using physical and chemical processes.
In molecular electronics, the conventional electrical components are replaced with molecules to create compact electronic circuits for use in data storage and computers. This will result in short circuit, when the electrodes are contacted by the molecules. Hence, the development of a workable circuit has become challenging. The electronic circuit is protected from short-circuiting by placing the graphene flakes above the molecules.
Kasper also stated that the researchers are planning to use molecules, which have the property of switching between conductive and non-conductive state, in the nanotechnology-based platform. Kasper said that this usage of molecules will enhance the future electronics in many applications including ultra-thin displays, memory devices and solar cells.
Source: http://www.ku.dk/