Microprocessors could be made even smaller if the copper in their circuits
were smooth, say researchers at the Naval Research Laboratory in Washington DC.
Microchip components are often built up in layers on copper films. But if the
copper surface is rough, the first layer of the component has to be thick, so
that it creates a smooth surface for the other layers. Researcher Shu-Fan Cheng
takes the rough edges off copper with nitric acid and uses benzotriazole to
prevent the fresh copper surface from oxidising. 鈥淭his new technique doesn鈥檛 use
abrasive slurries such as alumina, which generally create scratches,鈥 says
Cheng.
More from 51动漫
Explore the latest news, articles and features
Health
Three factors in midlife can delay the onset of dementia by 13 years
News
Health
Swallowing faecal capsules reduces peanut allergy in six adults
News
Environment
We must adapt to climate change while also tackling the root cause
Comment
Twisteddoodles: ‘Will you take the red pill or the blue pill?’
Regulars
Popular articles
Trending 51动漫 articles