Peking University Develops Revolutionary Silicon-Free Chip Surpassing Intel and TSMC Processors

A research team from Peking University, led by Professor of Physical Chemistry Peng Hailin, has announced the development of a groundbreaking new chip that could revolutionize the world of processors and semiconductors. This chip, based on two-dimensional transistors and free from silicon, is poised to redefine industry standards.

According to Interesting Engineering, the new chip outperforms Taiwan’s TSMC 3-nanometer chips by 40% in performance and consumes 10% less power compared to Intel’s most advanced processors, positioning China at the forefront of semiconductor innovation.

In an official statement, Peking University described the chip as the fastest of its kind, featuring the most efficient transistors ever created. The innovation promises to help China overcome the manufacturing limitations of traditional silicon-based chips, especially amid increasing geopolitical and technological restrictions.

Peng explained, “If innovations in traditional chips based on current materials represent a shortcut in technological development, our work with two-dimensional transistors represents a fundamental shift in how chips are conceived and built.”

The Chinese research team relied on the element bismuth instead of silicon in constructing the chip’s advanced transistors. They developed an ultra-thin, leak-proof gate using high-performance semiconductor material Bi₂O₂Se and a high-dielectric oxide gate material Bi₂SeO₅. This design significantly reduced switching voltage, improved computing power, and minimized energy consumption and leakage due to superior insulation properties.

This innovation is the result of nearly a decade of research and development. Peng and his team first identified the potential of bismuth-based materials nearly ten years ago, leading to the current breakthrough in chip design.

Peng also highlighted the role of U.S. sanctions in motivating alternative technological pathways, stating: “The restrictions on access to advanced silicon-based chips and transistors have compelled Chinese researchers to explore new solutions. Although born out of necessity, this path has opened our eyes to entirely new perspectives.”