In a groundbreaking achievement, Chinese scientists have developed the world’s first carbon-based microchip that can run artificial intelligence (AI) tasks using a revolutionary ternary logic system. This innovation, led by researchers from Peking University and Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, signals a major leap in semiconductor technology, with the potential to surpass traditional silicon-based chips.
The chip is made from carbon nanotubes (CNTs), a material known for its exceptional electrical properties and ultra-thin structure. Unlike traditional silicon chips that operate on a binary logic system of ones and zeros, this new chip uses ternary logic, introducing a third state. This ternary system enables faster computations with less energy, offering greater efficiency in data processing.
Also Read: Scientists Develop Injectable Hydrogel to Strengthen Bones
The research team designed a unique CNT transistor using source-gated transistors (SGTs), allowing for switching between three distinct current states—crucial for ternary logic. The team tested the chip’s AI capabilities by building a neural network that accurately classified handwritten digits, demonstrating its potential in tasks such as image recognition and machine learning.
This innovation places China at the forefront of carbon-based semiconductor research. Though CNT chips currently lag behind traditional silicon chips in terms of integration density, the technology holds immense promise for the future of high-performance, low-power computing.
Lead researcher Peng Lianmao expressed optimism, noting that carbon nanotube chips could become mainstream within the next 10 to 15 years, possibly replacing silicon in everything from supercomputers to smartphones. This development could usher in a new era of high-efficiency computing solutions.
