Graphene transistors could enable complex new circuits using relatively simple architectures, according to Massachusetts Institute of Technology researchers who recently demonstrated a single transistor frequency multiplier. Graphene transistors can transport both electrons like a silicon transistor, and holes like a GaAs transistor, enabling graphene field-effect transistors that outperform both silicon and gallium arsenide.
BOTTOM LINE: Carbon is about 100-times faster that silicon, making graphene chips a potential candidate for replacing or augmenting today's microchip technology. Gallium arsenide is faster than silicon too, but incompatible. However graphene films can be fabricated atop silicon chips, permitting a smooth transition to the new technology. Look for super high-speed graphene chips to begin appearing within five years.
