Pulsating chemical computers vie with their quantum rivals

Scientists in the UK have tackled optimisation problems currently targeted by quantum computers using the pulsating Belousov-Zhabotinsky (BZ) reaction. Lee Cronin’s University of Glasgow team uses colour oscillations in interconnected wells to encode data. ‘If a chemical computer can beat a quantum computer in message decryption, that would be hilarious,’ Cronin tells Chemistry World. However, experts are sceptical such a feat is possible.

Many unconventional computers use BZ colour changes. The Glasgow team’s are two 3D-printed arrays of interconnected wells. One is a single row containing seven such wells, the other a full 7x7 cellular grid. Each well has a narrow gap in each wall, with partial wells abutting the walls around the array’s outside. At these walls, pipes supply chemicals needed for BZ reactions. Wells fluctuate between red and blue colours, as sulfuric and malonic acid interact with ferroin indicator and potassium bromate.