Energy Storage in Quantum Resonators

摘要

Methods and apparatus for storing information or energy. An array of nano-capacitors is provided, where each nano-capacitor has a plurality of cathodic regions and an anode separated from each of the cathodic regions by one or more intervening dielectrics. Each nano-capacitor acts as a quantum resonator thereby suppressing electron emission. The thickness of the intervening dielectric is in the range between 0.1 nanometers and 1000 nanometers and is shorter than an electron mean free path within the dielectric. Each cathodic region is at least 100 times larger than the thickness of the intervening dielectric in every direction transverse to the thickness of the intervening dielectric. An excess of electrons is stored on the cathodic regions. The dielectric may be a metal oxide, particularly a native oxide of the cathode material.

主权项

1. A method for storing energy, the method comprising:
a. providing
(1) a plurality of non-coplanar cathodic regions; and(2) an anode spaced apart from each of the plurality of non-coplanar cathodic regions by an intervening dielectric characterized by a thickness normal to the cathodic electrode and by an electron mean free path,wherein a thickness of the intervening dielectric is in the range between 0.1 nanometers and 1000 nanometers and is smaller than the electron mean free path within the dielectric, and wherein the cathodic electrode is at least 100 times larger than the thickness of the intervening dielectric in every direction transverse to the thickness dimension of the intervening dielectric; and
b. storing an excess of electrons on the non-coplanar cathodic regions.