The Atomic Gap That Could Cost the Semiconductor Industry Billions

TU Wien researchers found that many promising 2D semiconductors form a tiny interface gap when placed on insulating layers.

That gap weakens electrical and capacitive coupling, creating a fundamental limit on transistor scaling and chip performance.

The result means device success depends not just on the 2D material itself, but also on how it interfaces with the dielectric.

The team recommends co-designing the semiconductor and insulator, including exploring interlocking “zipper” materials to close the gap.