This article reports on the 2008 Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship at NIST, where over 120 students worked on graphene research rather than a specific quantum computing standard. Supported by NIST and the National Science Foundation, the project aims to characterize and manufacture devices using graphene, a one-atom-thick carbon structure that combines properties of semiconductors and metals.
Student teams explored critical challenges, such as depositing graphene onto silicon substrates and measuring a quantum phenomenon known as the Hall effect to improve electrical resistance data. While graphene conducts electricity over 100 times faster than silicon, scientists currently struggle to produce it in commercial quantities or with the precise control needed for viable computer chips.
The work described is ongoing experimental research rather than a finalized protocol or standard. Researchers project that if production challenges are solved, graphene technology could revolutionize electronics within the next decade or two, though widespread implementation depends on solving current deposition and characterization issues.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news/2008/09/students-surf-graphene-nist
Keywords: graphene, quantum Hall effect, mechanical exfoliation
