Scalable Platform for Nanocrystal-Based Quantum Electronics

Unlocking the full potential of nanocrystals in electronic devices requires scalable and deterministic manufacturing techniques. A platform offering compelling paths to scalable production is microtomy, the technique of cutting thin lamellas with large areas containing embedded nanostructures. So far, this platform has not been used for the fabrication of electronic quantum devices. Here, microtomy is combined with vapor-liquid-solid growth of III/V nanowires to create a scalable platform that can deterministically transfer large arrays of single and fused nanocrystals-offering single unit control and free choice of the target substrate. Electronic devices are fabricated on cross-sectioned InAs nanowires with good yield, and their ability to exhibit quantum phenomena such as conductance quantization, single-electron charging, and wave interference are demonstrated. Finally, it is devised how the platform can host rationally designed semiconductor/superconductor networks relevant to emerging quantum technologies.

Automated summary

Unlocking the full potential of nanocrystals in electronic devices is achieved through a scalable platform that combines microtomy with vapor-liquid-solid growth of III/V nanowires. This platform allows for deterministic transfer of large arrays of nanocrystals, enabling single unit control and free choice of substrate. Electronic devices fabricated on cross-sectioned InAs nanowires demonstrate quantum phenomena such as conductance quantization, single-electron charging, and wave interference. Furthermore, this platform can host rationally designed semiconductor/superconductor networks relevant to emerging quantum technologies.