Graphene nanoribbons for quantum electronics

Graphene nanoribbons are an emerging class of 1D materials hosting rich quantum-confined and topological states. This Perspective discusses recent breakthroughs in graphene nanoribbon materials and devices, and identifies key challenges towards electronics and quantum information applications. Graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) are a family of one-dimensional (1D) materials with a graphitic lattice structure. GNRs possess high mobility and current-carrying capability, sizeable bandgap and versatile electronic properties, which make them promising candidates for quantum electronic applications. In the past 5 years, progress has been made towards atomically precise bottom-up synthesis of GNRs and heterojunctions that provide an ideal platform for functional molecular devices, as well as successful production of semiconducting GNR arrays on insulating substrates potentially useful for large-scale digital circuits. With further development, GNRs can be envisioned as a competitive candidate material in future quantum information sciences. In this Perspective, we discuss recent progress in GNR research and identify key challenges and new directions likely to develop in the near future.

Automated summary

Graphene nanoribbons, as a family of one-dimensional materials with a graphitic lattice structure, have shown high mobility, current-carrying capability, and versatile electronic properties, making them promising candidates for quantum electronic applications. Recent progress has been made in the atomically precise bottom-up synthesis of GNRs and heterojunctions, as well as in the production of semiconducting GNR arrays on insulating substrates, indicating a potential for large-scale digital circuits. In the near future, GNRs could become competitive candidate materials in quantum information sciences.