Researchers at the University of Michigan have made a significant advance in nanoengineering with the development of a new type of electronic switch that reduces energy loss due to heat. This breakthrough, reported on September 14, 2025, could transform the efficiency of electronic devices by utilizing excitons—bound pairs of electrons and holes—rather than relying solely on electron flow.
The newly designed switch, known as a nanoengineered optoexcitonics (NEO) device, incorporates a monolayer of w tungsten diselenide (WSe2) placed on a tapered silicon dioxide (SiO2) nanoridge. This innovative structure achieved a remarkable 66% reduction in energy loss compared to traditional electronic switches, while also surpassing an impressive on-off ratio of 19 dB at room temperature. These performance metrics position the NEO device among the highest-performing switches available today.
The challenge of energy loss in electronics stems from the resistance encountered by electrons as they move through conductive materials. This resistance converts some of the energy into thermal energy, resulting in heat that can affect the performance of devices such as laptops and smartphones. By utilizing excitons, which do not carry an electric charge, the NEO device drastically minimizes this energy loss, enhancing overall efficiency.
Despite the advantages of excitons, controlling their movement has been a long-standing challenge in the field of nanoengineering. Researchers have struggled to direct these charge-neutral particles quickly and efficiently. The team at the University of Michigan overcame this obstacle by harnessing excitons in the WSe2 layer. The material’s high binding energy keeps excitons stable at room temperature, facilitating their use in practical applications.
The design of the NEO device employs a tapered nanoridge structure that fosters strong interactions between light and dark excitons—those that do not emit light. This interaction generates a quantum effect that enhances the transport of excitons, allowing them to travel up to 400% faster than existing exciton guides. Moreover, the exciton-light interaction produces a strong opto-excitonic force that creates an energy barrier, enabling the switch to effectively turn the signal “off” and restore it when necessary.
The researchers highlight that the tailored structural design of the NEO device not only improves exciton transport but also opens pathways for the development of future excitonic devices. These advancements could bridge the gap between electronics and photonics, paving the way for next-generation technologies.
Published in the journal ACS Nano, this research represents a significant step forward in the quest for more efficient electronic devices. As the demand for energy-efficient technology continues to grow, innovations like the NEO device could play a crucial role in shaping the future of electronics.
This article has been meticulously fact-checked and reviewed, ensuring the reliability of the information presented. The findings underscore the potential of nanoengineered solutions to address pressing challenges in the electronics industry.
