Low-temperature plasmas are used in nearly half of all steps in fabricating computer chips. PPPL is transforming what has been a black-box approach into one based on scientific understanding and engineering control by working with the semiconductor industry to develop new ways to make smaller, more capable microelectronics using plasmas. 

This includes new ways to structure materials and new types of materials. For example, we are currently exploring the use of incredibly thin materials — in some cases, just a few layers of atoms, which are called 2D because of their single-layer properties. PPPL is also investigating the extreme properties of diamond and how it can be used to make sensors and electronics for harsh environments, such as those found in nuclear reactors. 

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The Lab is studying the best ways to make quantum diamond for electronics and sensors in its Quantum Diamond Lab. 

We are exploring the use of diamond-based materials to create alternatives to silicon in the fabrication of microchips, which could enable a wholly new type of chip relying on quantum bits, or “qubits,” that take the place of standard bits used in silicon-based computers. 

Qubits could make computers much faster and more powerful than those available today.

We're applying our experimental and computational strengths in plasma, engineering, and electrochemical and materials science. Our goal is not only to contribute to basic science research, but also bring discoveries to deployment.