New Graphene optical modulators set to revolutionize digital communications

Researchers at the University of Berkley have made a revolutionary breakthrough that if successful will herald a new era in digital communication technology.

graphene optical modulators could lead to ultrafas

Under the aegis of Dr. Xiang Zhang, director National Science Foundation Nano-scale Science and Engineering at the University of Berkley, scientists have developed a new graphene-base optical modulator. Graphene is basically a one-atom thick, two-dimensional material that has high electronic quality; and the role of modulators in digital data communications cannot be undermined.

This graphene optical modulator according to Dr. Zhang is perhaps the smallest in the world. It is very compact and has demonstrated an ability to perform at very high speeds.

To create this high-speed optical modulator, researchers used a layer of fish-net like graphene sheet on a silicon waveguide base that functions as the optical fiber. Electrical signals are sent in from one side of the graphene sheet that alters the number of photons that the sheet can absorb. The network modulator functions in a way that the crystallized carbon sheet switches on and off to send out data pulses at very high speeds. In fact the speed at which information is communicated is directly proportional to the rate at which data pulses are sent out.

Researchers were able to demonstrate that graphene, extracted from graphite can be cultured to electrically absorb light in wavelengths, which is very important in data communication technology.

It was discovered that the energy of the electrons in graphene could be altered at will based on voltage application. Basically at a certain negative voltage, when the light is switched on, all the electrons come out of graphene and make it transparent; unable to absorb photons which simply pass through the graphene sheet.

Again at certain positive voltages, the electrons in graphene are packed so closely that the ability to absorb photons is almost finished.

Researchers basically discovered a middle path, wherein just that much voltage is applied to the graphene which allows the electrons to prevent photons from passing through.

The advantages of using graphene are one two many. It is readily available and compatible with silicon technology, thus is a cheap and attractive option. It is an excellent conductor of heat and electricity, which is perfect for utilization in electronic goods.

Via: Physorg