The Future of Semiconductor Chips Beyond the Nanometer Scale: Technologies, Materials, and ImplicationsThe Future of Semiconductor Chips Beyond the Nanometer Scale: Technologies, Materials, and Implications
Introduction The relentless drive for ever-smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient semiconductor chips has defined the trajectory of modern electronics for decades. Moore’s Law, which predicted the doubling of transistor density every two years, has been the guiding principle behind this progress. However, as the industry approaches and surpasses the 2-nanometer (nm) threshold, the physical, economic, and environmental limitations of traditional CMOS scaling have become increasingly apparent. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the future of semiconductor chips beyond the nanometer scale, exploring emerging technologies, materials, architectures, and the multifaceted implications of this transition. Key areas addressed include 2D materials, advanced transistor designs, quantum and neuromorphic computing, 3D integration, lithography breakthroughs, sub-nanometer fabrication challenges, AI-driven chip design, and the economic and environmental impacts of next-generat...
