New Insights into Graphene Nanoribbon Properties Could Transform Next-gen Electronics

by Jose M Arcos

A collaboration between researchers at ICN2 and the Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research has analysed the electrical properties of these nanomaterials using spatiotemporal microscopy and numerical simulations. The results position graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) as a promising option for developing new electronic devices that require highly efficient electronic transport.

Klaas-Jan Tielrooij, head of the ICN2 Ultrafast Dynamics in Nanoscale Systems Group and Professor at Eindhoven University of Technology, together with Dr Aron Cummings, senior researcher in the ICN2 Theoretical and Computational Nanoscience Group, have led a novel international collaborative study involving researchers from ICN2 and the Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research (Mainz, Germany). The research, recently published in the journal Advanced Materials, further explores the outstanding electrical properties of graphene nanoribbons (GNRs). These nearly 1-D nanomaterials, which can be defined as narrow, flat strips of graphene, have great potential in several fields such as nanoelectronics or optoelectronics.

Specifically, this publication analysed a particular type of 9-atom-wide GNRs, known as 9-armchair nanoribbons (as seen in the image above), which are fabricated with atomic precision from smaller precursor molecules (bottom-up approach). The researchers used spatiotemporal microscopy techniques combined with computational simulations to observe how electrons move through the GNRs in real time. The results showed a surprisingly high initial mobility (550 cm²/V-s) and a high capacity for electron diffusion through the material. These results suggest that the atomic structure of the GNRs, nearly free of obstacles due to defects or interactions, allows for excellent charge mobility. GNRs can therefore be considered as a very promising material for the fabrication of new electronic devices that require highly efficient charge transport.

The results of this integrated experimental and theoretical approach are key to optimising these materials for use in cutting-edge applications in nano-electronics, optoelectronics and other advanced technology fields. They also confirm GNRs’ huge potential role in developing a new generation of electronic devices requiring highly efficient electronic transport.