"One of the hopes people have for graphene is in electronic devices. It is seen as a possible replacement for silicon, due to its unique properties," Herb Fertig tells PhysOrg.com. Graphene conducts well, and it is easy to cool, making it ideal for use in electronic devices continually shrinking in size. However, scientists have yet to understand some of the properties of graphene, including how to control the flow of electrons. "In silicon," Fertig continues, "there is an energy gap that can be exploited to manipulate the flow of electrons. Graphene is a good conductor, but it is less clear how to control the electrons."
To read the rest of the article, click here.