Graphene Nanoribbons Can Survive Gamma Radiation

Topic: Materials Science

Researchers at the University of Arizona have found that graphene nanoribbons can withstand gamma radiation. This discovery could lead to better sensors for fusion reactors and deep space exploration.

University of Arizona researchers have made a significant breakthrough in the field of materials science. They have demonstrated that graphene nanoribbons, tiny semiconductor strips, can survive exposure to gamma radiation.

The team's findings were published in the journal ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces. The researchers integrated the nanoribbons into semiconductor devices and exposed them to gamma radiation. Their results suggest that these ribbons could serve as radiation sensors for fusion reactors and deep space exploration.

Fusion energy is a clean and nearly limitless power source, but it's still in its infancy. One of the biggest challenges facing engineers is monitoring the condition of a reactor's first wall. This innermost barrier separates the superheated fuel from the reactor structure and gradually degrades under intense radiation.

The researchers used graphene nanoribbons that were 9 atoms wide, 1 atom thick, and about 45 nanometers long. They synthesized these ribbons from the molecular level and embedded them in common semiconductor devices. The team's measurements indicate that gamma radiation passing through the surrounding air produces reactive molecules that subtly alter the ribbon edges without changing their overall structure.

This discovery could lead to better sensors for fusion reactors, which would allow engineers to monitor the condition of a reactor's first wall in real-time. This could potentially reduce costly shutdowns for inspection and maintenance and increase the amount of time fusion power plants can remain in operation.

Why It Matters

This breakthrough has significant implications for India's energy future. Fusion energy is a clean and nearly limitless power source, which could help meet the country's growing energy demands without contributing to climate change.

Key Facts

• Researchers at the University of Arizona have found that graphene nanoribbons can withstand gamma radiation.
• The team's findings were published in the journal ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces.
• Graphene nanoribbons are tiny semiconductor strips that could serve as radiation sensors for fusion reactors and deep space exploration.
• Fusion energy is a clean and nearly limitless power source, but it's still in its infancy.
• The researchers used graphene nanoribbons that were 9 atoms wide, 1 atom thick, and about 45 nanometers long.

Key Terms

Graphene

A highly conductive and flexible material made up of carbon atoms.

Gamma radiation

High-energy radiation that can damage living tissues and materials.

Implications

This breakthrough has significant implications for India's energy future. Fusion energy is a clean and nearly limitless power source, which could help meet the country's growing energy demands without contributing to climate change.