Ultrafast Laser Enables World's Fastest Petahertz Quantum Transistor Using Graphene

A team of researchers from the Department of Physics has developed a novel method to manipulate the behavior of electrons in graphene by using ultrafast laser pulses. These pulses, which last less than a trillionth of a second (femtoseconds), enable the creation of a device referred to as a petahertz quantum transistor. Graphene, a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice, is known for its exceptional electrical and mechanical properties. By directing extremely brief pulses of light at graphene, the researchers were able to induce electronic changes at unprecedented speeds, potentially reaching the petahertz range (one quadrillion cycles per second). This breakthrough demonstrates the possibility of controlling electronic processes on timescales much shorter than previously achievable, which could have significant implications for the development of future quantum computing and ultrafast electronic devices. The research was reported by eeNews Europe.