Nanocrystals Pave the Way for Next-Generation Optical Computing

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Nanocrystals Pave the Way for Next-Generation Optical Computing

Asked by terryaster at 9:15am on Jan 8 2025

Researchers, including an Oregon State University chemist, have made a breakthrough in optical computing and memory by discovering luminescent nanocrystals that can toggle between light and dark states with exceptional speed.

“These nanocrystals possess extraordinary switching and memory capabilities that could become integral to optical computing, where light particles process and store information at unparalleled speeds,” said Artiom Skripka, assistant professor in OSU’s College of Science. “Our findings have the potential to revolutionize artificial intelligence and information technology.”

The study, published in Nature Photonics, was conducted by Skripka and collaborators from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Columbia University, and the Autonomous University of Madrid. It focuses on avalanching nanoparticles, a type of material with extreme non-linear light-emission properties. These nanoparticles can massively amplify emitted light intensity with only a slight increase in the laser excitation.

The team investigated potassium lead chloride nanocrystals doped with neodymium. While the base nanocrystals do not naturally interact with light, their neodymium ions enable efficient light signal handling, making them valuable for applications in optoelectronics, laser technologies, and other optical fields.

Surprisingly, these nanocrystals exhibit a phenomenon called intrinsic optical bistability. “Under the same laser excitation wavelength and power, the nanocrystals can be either bright or dark,” Skripka explained. “To switch them on, higher laser power is initially required, but once active, they stay bright with much lower power. It’s akin to pedaling a bike—you push hard to start but require less effort to keep moving.”

The ability to switch luminescence on and off abruptly, like flipping a button, positions these nanocrystals as low-power, energy-efficient solutions for modern challenges. As artificial intelligence, data centers, and electronic devices demand increasing computational power, reducing energy consumption is critical.

“This discovery could lead to faster, more efficient data processors that enhance machine learning algorithms and data analysis,” Skripka said. “It also holds promise for light-based technologies used in telecommunications, medical imaging, environmental sensing, and quantum computing.”

Beyond immediate applications, the study supports broader efforts to develop general-purpose optical computers based on nanoscale interactions between light and matter. Skripka emphasized the need for continued research to address scalability and integration challenges, ensuring these innovations translate into practical solutions.

“Our findings highlight the transformative potential of fundamental research in driving technological advancements and economic growth,” he added.

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