Weyl Fermion Devices for Chipscale Communications
Abstract
This proposal addresses a study of novel Weyl fermions for the possibility of high performance optoelectronic and photonic devices that can be used for Air Force applications such as chipscale communications. Weyl fermions are recently discovered massless electron excitations that occur in Weyl semimetals such as tantalum arsenide, with exotic properties including low scattering rates, high carrier mobilities, and direct energy band structure with linear dispersion relations in three dimensions. These properties may enable devices with very high-speed operation and with direct gap optical interactions at long wavelengths extending into the infrared and terahertz regimes. Aswith any new class of materials, however, the device properties are not yet well understood, and are the subject of this proposal. This proposed three-year research project will seek to understand: (a) the availability, properties, and stability of Weyl semimetals; (b) the design, fabrication, and materials processing compatibility of Weyl fermion devices; and (c) the characteristics, limitations, and operating temperature range of devices. Funds were budgeted for personnel, materials, supplies, and travel. This timely research project presents opportunities for discoveries about the suitability of Weyl fermions for optoelectronic and photonic devices and applications that are relevant to the Air Force.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- May 02, 2017
- Source ID
- FA95501710134
Entities
People
- J. Kolodzey
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- United States Air Force
- University of Delaware