Tiny Switch Could Be Just Three Atoms Thick
Tuesday, July 1, 2014 - 11:10
in Physics & Chemistry
Stanford researchers envision a crystal that can form a monolayer three atoms thick. Their computer simulations show that this crystal, molybdenum ditelluride, can act like a switch: its crystal lattice can be mechanically pulled and pushed, back and forth, between two different atomic structures -- one that conducts electricity well, the other that does not. The switchable material is formed when one atomic layer of molybdenum atoms gets sandwiched between two atomic layers of tellurium atoms. Molybdenum and tellurium are elements that are currently used as additives for making alloys, such as steel. Tellurium is also a component of many modern solar cells. read more