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GRAPHENE could play a large role in the future of spintronics, research from Chalmers University of Technology has revealed.
The researchers found that large area graphene is able to preserve electron spin over an extended period, and communicate it over greater distances than previously known.
Spintronics is based on the quantum state of the electrons, rather than their positive or negative charge. It promises to make processor much faster and less power hungry compared to conventional electronics. However, in most materials, the spin property of electrons is extremely short-lived and fragile.
While graphene is already in the research spotlight thanks to its excellent electric conductivity, the new research published in Nature Communications found that it could also maintain the spin property of electrons for a longer period.
This could enable future spin-based components where the electrons must be able to travel several tens of micrometers with their spins kept aligned.
The researchers conducted their experiments using “low quality” graphene produced through chemical vapour deposition, which gives the resulting material wrinkles, roughness and other defects.
The researchers showed that it is possible to preserve the spin properties of electrons in graphene channels that are up to 16 micrometers long.
“The duration over which the spins stay aligned has been measured to be over a nanosecond,” says Chalmers researcher Venkata Kamalakar, who is the article’s first author.
“This is promising because it suggests that the spin parameters can be further improved as we develop the method of manufacturing.”
The next step is to construct a logical component similar to transistors, but using spin signals, made up of graphene and magnetic materials.