Tucson Standard

The National Science Foundation has awarded $3.8 million for two projects involving University of Arizona engineers, aiming to address energy challenges in semiconductor technology. These projects are part of the Future of Semiconductors (FuSe2) program.

Semiconductor technology's energy consumption is on the rise, doubling every three years since 2010, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. By 2030, these technologies could account for nearly 20% of global energy use.

FuSe2 focuses on overcoming key challenges within the U.S. semiconductor industry. The two interdisciplinary projects involve expertise from the University of Arizona's College of Engineering in wireless communication and computer memory systems, with each project receiving $1.9 million over three years.

"Semiconductor technology is foundational to our modern economy and critical to addressing the grand challenges of our time," stated Tomás Díaz de la Rubia, senior vice president of research and innovation at the University of Arizona.

Marwan Krunz, Regents Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, is contributing to a microchip expected to enhance energy efficiency by up to 100 times while improving next-generation wireless communication. Krunz received $575,000 for his role in a FuSe2 project led by Arizona State University.

Weigang Wang leads efforts in developing materials and devices aimed at reducing energy waste and accelerating computer memory systems by up to 100 times. His team is focusing on miniaturizing electronic devices further, with $1.1 million allocated for their project work.

The Semiconductor Research Corporation warns that increasing energy demand threatens computing advancements unless revolutionary changes occur soon.

"The teams are tackling core technical challenges for advanced technologies that will improve communications and computing while reducing energy consumption," said Liesl Folks, vice president of semiconductor strategy at the university.

Wang's research combines theoretical work with experimental fabrication using new materials designed to revolutionize computing energy consumption across various systems.

His team is exploring magnetic tunnel junctions as potential replacements for traditional transistors in storing information more efficiently through quantum mechanical properties like electron spin.

"It's like the magnet on your refrigerator door that can stay in place for 10 years," explained Wang regarding antiferromagnetic devices being investigated by his team.

University students will actively participate in both FuSe2 projects while outreach efforts include engaging Tucson teachers and students through partnerships with local schools like Sunnyside High School.

"It is so important that we involve teachers and students in developing new technologies so they are excited about what the future holds," emphasized Folks regarding education initiatives linked with these groundbreaking research endeavors.