Scientists, led by an Indian-origin researcher, have created an artificial material with a structure similar to the 'wonder material' graphene.
Graphene transistors are predicted to be substantially faster and more heat tolerant than today's silicon transistors and may result in more efficient computers and the next-generation of flexible electronics.
Graphene, discovered in 2004, is a one-atom-thick sheet of graphite, consisting of carbon atoms.
"We've basically created the first artificial graphene-like structure with transition metal atoms in place of carbon atoms," said Jak Chakhalian, professor of physics and director of the Artificial Quantum Materials Laboratory at the University of Arkansas in US.
"This discovery gives us the ability to create graphene-like structures for many other elements," said Srimanta Middey, a postdoctoral research associate at the university, who led the study.
The study was published in the journal Physical Review Letters.
