Data transmission performance of few layer graphene ribbon interconnects

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrical Engineering
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Metal interconnects face limitations in data transmission performance at small scales.
• Graphene is explored as a potential replacement due to its unique electronic properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the digital data transmission performance of few-layer graphene ribbon interconnects.
• To assess graphene's viability as a substitute for conventional metal interconnects.

Main Methods:

• Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) was used to grow few-layer graphene ribbon interconnects.
• Digital data transmission performance was measured at various lengths.

Main Results:

• Graphene ribbon interconnects with a mobility of 2,180 cm²V⁻¹s⁻¹ sustained data rates up to 90 Mbps at 100 nm length.
• Interconnects exhibit RLC line behavior, with bandwidth inversely proportional to resistance, inductance, and capacitance.
• Projected bandwidths exceeding terabits per second are achievable with enhanced graphene mobility and parallel structures.

Conclusions:

• Few-layer graphene ribbon interconnects demonstrate significant potential for high-performance data transmission.
• Optimizing graphene mobility and employing parallel transmission line structures can unlock ultra-high bandwidth capabilities, surpassing terabits per second.