Pioneering computer without silicon unveiled

Technology Jun 29, 2025

Scientists at Penn State have built the first-ever computer using only two-dimensional materials—think layers just one atom thick.
This new tech is a big step beyond silicon, opening doors to gadgets that are smaller, more flexible, and way more energy-efficient.

How the team made over 1,000 transistors

The team made over 1,000 transistors from ultra-thin materials: molybdenum disulfide (for n-type) and tungsten diselenide (for p-type).
Even though these sheets are incredibly thin, they still work great for electronics.

Tiny computer runs below 3 volts and uses barely any power

Their tiny computer runs below 3 volts and uses barely any power.
While it's not super fast yet, future versions could be much quicker.
If this takes off, we might see devices that keep Moore's Law alive a bit longer as silicon hits its limits.