The Development of Theoretical Quantum-Mechanical Models to Advance Theoretical and Experimental Research in Clocked Molecular Quantum-dot Cellular Automata

Quantum-dot cellular automata (QCA) is a novel, current-free approach to computing at the nanoscale, which, if realized in computing devices, will have broad-reaching effects in the electronics industry. First, the concept of QCA is outlined. Next, personal research topics are proposed, to include the development of theoretical quantum-dynamic models of switching QCA cells; the development of a robust theoretical model to describe the interaction between a single-electron transistor (SET) and a QCA molecule when the SET is used as an electrometer for the measurement of intracellular charge transport; an examination of Landauer’s Principle within the framework of the QCA paradigm; the development of a theoretical model for scanning tunneling microscope imaging of QCA molecules; and the development of simpler theoretical models for more complex calculations of the behaviors of candidate QCA molecules. Finally potential ramifications of realizing computing devices based on QCA are described.