Next Generation Nano-electronic Circuit Elements Using Graphene Nano Ribbons

ABSTRACT: As integrated circuits technologies scale down to deep nanometer regime, conventional transistors and interconnect are approaching their fundamental physical and material limits. One of the potential directions for the next generation nanoelectronic applications is the adoption of graphene based circuit elements. In the past few years there has been a surge of interest for the two versions of graphene technology carbon nanotube (CNT) and graphene nanoribbon (GNR), for their large mean free path, excellent electrical, thermal and mechanical properties, ballistic transport, higher current density, and resistance to reliability problem like electromigration that plague metal interconnect technology. Potentially more controllable and easier synthesis and fabrication process make GNR more preferable than CNT. In this project we will model the electrical properties and material characteristics of GNR to develop efficient design methodologies and computer aided design (CAD) tools. We will specifically focus on multi layer graphene nanoribbon (MLGNR) interconnects. The electrostatic and electromagnetic interaction of layers within MLGNR will be investigated. We will develop prototypes of contacted graphene transistor and MLGNR interconnects and conduct a series of experiments as well as radiation-hardness studies to establish the feasibility of using GNR transistor and interconnects in nanoscale integrated circuits. The results would be used for a comparative analysis of GNR devices with CNT and conventional circuit elements. Northwestern University, University of Missouri Kansas City, and the Michigan Molecular Institute will serve as subcontractors. BENEFIT: Graphene is believed to be the strongest (100 times stronger than steel) yet thinnest possible material with exceptional electrical and thermal conductivities. The most promising use of graphene would be to develop ultra-low-power, lightweight, high-density and radiation hardened nanoelectronic circuits for military and space applications. There are other enticing possibilities. Graphene powder, for its very large surface-to-volume ratio and high conductivity, can lead to improvements in electrical battery efficiency. Graphene based sensors would lead to new bolometers that may be used by military in night vision goggles or for thermal body imaging and may eventually be incorporated into smart phones. A new class of graphene based electrochemical super-capacitors are being investigated for applications requiring high power density such as electric vehicles, utility load-leveling, heavy-load starting assists for diesel locomotives, military and medical applications, and also low power applications such as camera-flash equipment, MP3 players, pulsed-light generators, and as back-up power for computer memory. Graphene is also being considered for flexible displays and carbon-based solar cells. Therefore, many researchers are anticipating that break through in graphene technology would solve global challenges in health, security and sustainability.