Superlattices are structures made of alternating layers of different materials, typically measured in nanometers. They create new forms of semiconductors with unique properties and can increase resistance to shearing effects. Superlattice semiconductors can conduct electricity faster or slower than traditional ones, and their layered structure allows for separate properties to be maintained. Although few artifacts currently use superlattices, ongoing research is likely to change this and improve the lifespan and energy consumption of common consumables.
A superlattice is a structure composed of alternating layers of different materials. These layers are typically measured in nanometers and the typical superlattice is extremely small. These structures are used in creating new forms of semiconductors that exhibit different properties than the materials included. As this technology enters the mainstream, it is believed that it will allow scientists to create materials with very different properties without any change in its appearance.
The structure is made by stacking layers of different materials on top of each other. These layers are very thin, even thinner than a human hair. By stacking such thin materials together, the properties of the individual materials blend together in unexpected ways. This combination of properties allows scientists to create substances that have properties that are rare or unknown among natural materials.
There are two common reasons for creating a superlattice structure. The first is to increase the material’s resistance to shearing effects. The process of creating a superlattice increases shear strength far beyond the strength possessed by any of the constituent materials. This resistance allows the material to maintain its structure under greater stresses than traditional materials.
The other common reason for building a superlattice is to produce new varieties of semiconductors. These materials transmit electricity better than an insulator, but not as well as a conductor. They are used in nearly every form of modern electronics, often in the form of an integrated circuit or microchip. Current semiconductors are usually made of silicon, but superlattice semiconductors can be made of many different things.
Semiconductor superlattices have a handful of advantages over typical semiconductors. These fabricated materials can conduct electricity faster or slower than a typical silicon semiconductor, simply by altering the amounts of substances in the lattice. This will allow for the custom construction of a semiconductor to very specific tolerances.
Another advantage is to keep some properties of the crosslinked materials separate. By creating a layered conductor, currents of varying power can be sent through the semiconductor. Indeed, each layer transmits energy at its natural rate. This will allow a single material to operate on two different frequencies simultaneously, improving the response time of the material.
Few artifacts use superlattices. Some companies are experimenting with batteries and light bulbs that use superlattice-based cathodes, but they’re very rare. Ongoing research in the field will likely change that. Superlattice structures have many properties that, when added to common consumables, increase their lifespan and reduce energy consumption.
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