A favorite yarn often used to describe something we may want, but cannot immediately or easily acquire, is that it just doesn’t grow on trees. But, as we learn from EurekAlert, that maxim reportedly no longer applies to computer memory.
Researchers at Hebrew University of Jerusalem have successfully demonstrated how significant improvements in computer memory storage may be obtained through an innovative pairing of silicon nanoparticles with a protein extracted from poplar trees.
The unusual approach to improved computer storage arises from research recently published in the journal Nature Nanotechnology. The Hebrew University team contends that their approach offers an altogether novel approach to the task of increasing the miniaturization of memory hardware while increasing capacity.
Further, early indications are that the approach would additionally offer a highly cost-competitive solution to the drive to simultaneously achieve ever-greater storage capacity in ever-smaller devices.
The breakthrough has generated a patent for Yissum, a technology subsidiary of the Hebrew University, and is currently licensed to Fulcrum SP Ltd. for ongoing research and development. All involved are hopeful that the approach will soon prove to be a poplar alternative to current and conventional memory devices.
Photo by Penny Mayes via Wikimedia Commons.