Story perspectives

Revolutionary Laser Technique Boosts Chip Performance 1000 Times

1/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Japanese researchers have developed a method using ultrafast lasers to control heat flow in chip components by modifying surfaces of thin silicon and silica films to create grooves that limit phonon movement.
The process, called femtosecond laser-induced periodic surface structures, operates over 1000 times faster than traditional methods.
The resulting nanostructures are reportedly 1000 times stronger than those made with conventional techniques.
Wider adoption will depend on reproducibility, stability, and cost-effectiveness in industrial settings.

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Story summary

Japanese researchers have developed a method using ultrafast lasers to control heat flow in chip components by modifying surfaces of thin silicon and silica films to create grooves that limit phonon movement.
The process, called femtosecond laser-induced periodic surface structures, operates over 1000 times faster than traditional methods.
The resulting nanostructures are reportedly 1000 times stronger than those made with conventional techniques.
Wider adoption will depend on reproducibility, stability, and cost-effectiveness in industrial settings.