Molecular logic based information processing is emerging as one of the approaches to overcome limitations of silicon based computing. Using chemical species as inputs and light as output, the wireless interfacing of molecular-scale devices to human operators has been made possible, building a whole family of molecular logic operations with gradually increasing complexity. This approach is central to the carbon-based information technology revolution.
In the light of the above, the National Science Foundation, in collaboration with the National Academy of Sciences Sri Lanka (NASSL) organized a knowledge sharing session on ‘Molecular Logic Based Computation’ which was held on 10th January 2025 from 3.00 p.m. to 4.00 p.m. at the NSF. The resource person was Prof. A.P. de Silva, an Emeritus Professor of Organic Chemistry at Queen’s University Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK and a pioneer in photophysics, photochemistry, and molecular logic-based computation who invented fluorescent PET sensor principle contributing to the development of OPTI blood electrolyte analyzer, a life-saving innovation with global impact and the work related to molecular logic had earned him the Royal Society of Chemistry’s prestigious Chemical Landmark Award.
During the presentation, Prof. A. P. de Silva shed light on topics such as the PET design and off and sensors selective for Sodium ions, molecular logical edge detection, molecular memory with downstream logic processing and new redox-switchable receptors for sensing and logic. He elaborated the interesting principles under each of these topics and how he contributed to invent the Molecular Logic-based Computation – a new field which bridges Chemistry and Computer Science to shed light on the informational basis of life processes at the level of molecules, cells and organisms (His presentation slides are annexed below for further information). Finally, he emphasized on the need of promoting the philosophical investment in scientific investigation to achieve greater advancement.
There were 45 participants for the session comprised academics, researchers and professionals both from the public and private sectors, attendees representing NASSL membership, as well as relevant staff officers from NASSL and the NSF.
Click here to view Prof De Silva's presentation in pdf format