Ultra-Fast Electronic-Photonic Materials and Devices

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9705038 Salamo Information technology has become the defining technology for our world. Ultra-fast delivery of information to anyone anywhere is to be expected in the near future. Such technology must rely on the development of ultra-fast microelectronics and information pathways. Fiber optic pathways have demonstrated transmission capacity characterized by extremely high bit rates over the longest non-repeated distances. Though impressive capacities have been achieved, today's systems utilize only a small fraction of the potential transmission capacity available through optical fibers. The main reason is that electronic-photonic components at the input and output ends of the fiber pathways are not capable of operating at the ultra-fast speeds which would be commensurate with the fiber's potential band width. A new generation of ultra-faster electronic-photonic materials and devices is needed. This research endeavor is the focus of the proposal. Parallel to the need for new ultra-fast devices, a window of opportunity for corresponding entrepreneurial ventures has opened. University spin-off companies, inspired by new ideas for smaller, faster, lower power photonic-electronics can emerge wherever the needed mix of vision, talent and support resides. Given the potential for small companies to seed and grow in this area, there is little doubt that the next few years will be witness to a burgeoning microelectronics economy which can be located anywhere in the United States. The University of Arkansas has decided to seize the opportunity for research and entrepreneurial ventures in this area. The approach is based on: (i) frontier research and development of new materials with the potential for ultra-fast performance; (ii) formation and development of a competitive interdisciplinary team of scientists, engineers and students with the talents needed to forge achievements; (iii) initiation of an organization which will build bridges to industry and entre preneurial opportunities for faculty and students, (iv) formation of a Center for Ultra-Fast Electronic-Photonic Materials and Devices, and (v) an innovative educational program which provides enhanced career opportunities for students. The technical approach is based on the development of indium phosphide, InP, cubic boron nitride, cBN, and polymers to produce ultra-fast electronic-photonic components capable of advancing the rate of processing of information to and from high bandwidth pathways. This effort is built around a unique Molecular Beam Epitaxy - Scanning Tunneling Microscope facility, making it possible for the University of Arkansas to gain a strategic foothold in the global race to advance the frontier of ultra-fast electronic-photonic materials and devices and inspire corresponding spin-off companies in Arkansas.