A Common Semiconductor Just Became a Superconductor
18 days ago
- #semiconductors
- #quantum-technology
- #superconductivity
- Scientists have made germanium, a common semiconductor, superconducting for the first time by embedding gallium atoms into its crystal lattice.
- The breakthrough could revolutionize computing and quantum technologies by enabling energy-efficient, scalable quantum devices and cryogenic electronics.
- The research team used molecular beam epitaxy to precisely integrate gallium atoms, stabilizing the crystal structure to achieve superconductivity at 3.5 Kelvin.
- This discovery paves the way for integrating superconducting properties into widely used semiconductor materials, potentially transforming consumer and industrial technologies.
- The study involved an international team of researchers and received support from the US Air Force's Office of Scientific Research.