Germanium reveals hidden talents

Germanium produced with very few impurities is thought to be compatible with ballistic (impact-free) transport of electrons or holes. In addition, theoretically, holes offer strong spin-orbit coupling. Researchers from INAC working with colleagues from the UK and the Netherlands* recently demonstrated these two theoretical properties in the lab on a quantum electronic system built specifically for the research. The system is made from a 2D germanium layer with an electrostatic grid sandwiched between two silicon-germanium layers.

Superconducting aluminum electrodes were connected to the system, enabling the propagation of a superconducting current in the germanium. The results, obtained at 17 mK, will create new possibilities in spintronics and quantum computer design.

*The Universities of Warwick and Delft

Contact: florian.vigneau@cea.fr

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