Other solutions in micro- and nanoelectronics include advanced technologies that do not fit directly into traditional electronics categories but are key to the development of new functionalities for electronic devices. Examples include MEMS (micro-electromechanical systems), thin-film transistors, and novel materials, such as oxide semiconductors and perovskites.
Other Solutions in Micro- and Nanoelectronics
Type of technology
Description of the technology
Basic elements
- MEMS: Miniature devices that combine mechanical, electrical, and optical components.
- Thin-film transistors: They are used as biosensors.
- Perovskite materials: New materials with high electron mobility and photovoltaic properties.
- Metallic oxides: They are used as semiconductor materials in flexible devices.
- Graphene and other 2D materials: Innovative materials with high electrical and thermal conductivity.
Industry usage
- MEMS microsystems: Miniature accelerometers and gyroscopes in mobile devices.
- Thin-film transistors: biosensor components for non-invasive diagnostics
- Flexible screens: New materials used in wearable devices.
- Chemical sensors: MEMS for gas and chemical analysis.
- Modern solar cells: Use of perovskites in photovoltaics.
Importance for the economy
Innovative micro- and nanoelectronics solutions support the development of advanced electronic systems, including medical devices, monitoring systems, and advanced sensors. They translate into the development of new industrial sectors and increased competitiveness of companies in the global market.
Related technologies
Mechanism of action
- These solutions are based on the use of nanostructures and the unique physicochemical properties of the new materials. MEMS are created using lithographic technology and enable the integration of sensor elements into integrated circuits. Thin-film transistors enable the development of electronics integrated into everyday objects or the development of diagnostic methods.
Advantages
- Efficiency: Improved speed and precision of systems.
- Miniaturisation: Reducing the size of elements to the nanometer scale.
- Flexibility: Ability to integrate with different types of devices.
- Material savings: Reducing the use of costly materials.
- Diverse applications: From medical devices to consumer systems.
Disadvantages
- Stability issues: The new materials may be sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity.
- Production difficulties: Advanced processes require precision manufacturing technologies.
- Implementation costs: High costs of adapting new industry solutions.
- Cybersecurity: Potential risks related to nanoparticles in new materials.
- Limited compatibility: Integration with existing systems can be difficult.
Implementation of the technology
Required resources
- Advanced materials: Metal nanoparticles, graphene, and metallic oxides.
- Lithographic technologies: UV photolithography and e-beam.
- Specialised infrastructure: Cleanrooms for MEMS production.
- EDA software: Tools for designing nano- and microstructures.
- Advanced laboratories: Equipment for studying the properties of nanostructures.
Required competences
- Knowledge of nanomaterials: Features and applications.
- Materials engineering: Design of material structures.
- Embedding techniques: Precise application of thin-film structures.
- IC design: Integration of micro- and nanostructures.
- Quality control: Methods for analysing mechanical and electrical properties.
Environmental aspects
- Energy consumption: High energy demand in synthesis processes.
- Raw material consumption: Use of rare and hard-to-find materials.
- Waste generated: Chemical waste and toxic residues.
- Emissions of pollutants: Emission of volatile organic compounds in chemical processes.
- Recycling: Difficulties in recycling nanostructures and MEMS devices.
Legal conditions
- Safety standards: Regulations for working with nanomaterials.
- Environmental standards: REACH and other regulations for chemical substances.
- Intellectual property: Patents on innovative nanoelectronic structures.
- Occupational safety: Regulations for the protection of workers in cleanrooms.
- Export regulations: Restrictions on high-tech exports.