Self-destructing silicon devices close to reality

In many action movies we have seen how objects are created that can later self-destruct. But, as on many occasions, reality surpasses fiction. Last year the first high-performance flexible silicon transistors were developed. This was the first step to what you now expect as you are working on devices that can be programmed to self-destruct.

Self-destructing silicon transmitters are a reality

Researchers have been working on its development for a long time. Earlier this year, they already demonstrated that it is possible to create a self-destructing transistor. In addition to getting him to do it in certain situations such as theft. The latest analyzes show that they can be destroyed in just 10 seconds. So it is a project that is progressing very fast.

Transistors that self-destruct

The approach they carry out this time is based on the thermal expansion of the expandable material so that it is destroyed in a few seconds. This work has already been collected by numerous publications internationally. This is the first step to implement the use of electronic devices or parts thereof that have the ability to self-destruct. Also, this process is partly based / inspired by the Joule effect.

Furthermore, they have shown that this process can be carried out with most electronic products made of silicon or derivatives. So everything from mobile phones or SIM cards to computer components could directly self-destruct. Many see it as a new and extreme security measure that would achieve total protection of user data. No one would have access to them.

It seems that the most immediate use of this type of device is in the military field. From self-destructing memories on laptops to prevent data theft to destroying a phone's SIM. Currently groups of researchers from companies and universities are working on this project. The first devices with this capability may be released next year, or at least some prototypes.