Researchers say they have made a significant step towards Drexlerian nanotechnology - programmable atomically precise manufacturing
20d 16h ago by futurology.today/u/BaylorSwift3 in futurology@futurology.today from arxiv.org
The ability to build atomically precise structures on surfaces with complete control over both atomic placement and chemical bonding remains a central challenge in nanoscale fabrication. Here, we demonstrate simultaneous spatial and chemical control over the mechanosynthetic fabrication of carbon structures. Using inverted-mode STM, C$_2$ units are donated from surface-deposited molecules to pre-patterned reactive sites on a hydrogen-passivated Si(100) surface. We demonstrate single-site C$_2$ donation, spatially patterned multi-site C$_2$ donation, and the stepwise assembly of polyyne structures through successive C-C bond formation. Together, these results establish controlled mechanosynthetic donation as a foundational capability for programmable atomically precise fabrication.
Programmable matter like in Star Trek: Discovery?
No, more like atomic scale lab scale 3d printing.
Check out Radical Abundance by Erick Drexler.