Scaling of CMOS has been so far the main driving force to broaden the spectrum of applications of information processing technologies through increased performance and complexity. But as dimensional scaling of CMOS approaches its fundamental limits, novel information processing approaches need to be explored in order to extend the integrated circuit scaling cadence. This motivates the IMN activities in nanophotonics and nanomagnetism.
Nanophotonics research at the IMN is supported by a wide experience on the fabrication and characterization of laser sources based on nanostructured semiconductors, mostly III-V quantum dot nanostructures. Also, photonic crystals are investigated as nanometric laser sources, sub-micron sized waveguides or photonic memories, all crucial components of high density integrated nanophotonic circuits. Novel devices for quantum nanophotonics, such as quantum single photon emitters and entangled photon emitters, which can enable solid-state based quantum communications and quantum computing, are also subject of research at the IMN. Finally, the IMN activities in plasmonics exploit the singular optical properties of metallic nanostructures to enable manipulation of light for information processing applications.
Regarding nanomagnetism, recent progresses in spin transfer physics are widening the application spectra for spintronics devices. For instance, the spin-transfer phenomenon between a magnetic insulator and a non-magnetic metal with large spin orbit coupling can be exploited for “magnonic” logic and data storage. Similarly, coupling the flows of charge and spin currents opens the door to "spin-orbitronic" devices offering improved reliability and faster memories with low energy consumption. In order to contribute to achieve these expectations, the IMN pursues the understanding of the mechanisms of the spin transfer torque as well as the physics of high frequency nonlinear magnetization dynamics.
RESEARCH GROUPS WORKING on ICT
Acronim |
Name |
IP |
email |
MBE |
MBE: Quantum nanostructures for optoelectronics |
Dr. Yolanda González |
yolanda.gonzalez@csic.es |
MetalNano |
Metallic nanostructures and magneto-plasmonics |
Prof. Gaspar Armelles |
magnetoplasmonics@imn.cnm.csic.es |
ARDID |
Advanced Research Detector & Devices |
Dr. Jose Luis Costa |
jl.costa.kramer@csic.es |
NanoPod |
anophotonic Devices |
Dr. Aitor Postigo |
pabloaitor.postigo@imn.cnm.csic.es |