Researchers have developed an innovative method to engineer cheap versatile computer chips that could offer greater speed, efficiency and capability of the next generation of computers.

The discovery could revolutionise the production of optoelectronic materials - or devices that produce, detect and control light -- which are vital for the next generation of renewable energy, security and defence technologies, the researchers said in a paper published in the journal Scientific Reports.

"This breakthrough will hopefully lead to a revolution in the development of vital new materials for computer electronics," said Anna Baldycheva from Exeter's Centre for Graphene Science and author of the paper. 

The materials and methods used to develop the chips are extremely promising for a wide range of further potential applications beyond the current devices, added Baldycheva. 

The team used microfluidics technology, which uses a series of minuscule channels in order to control the flow and direction of tiny amounts of fluid. 

The team analysed their methodology to not only confirm the technique is successful but also to provide a blueprint for others to use to help manufacture the chips.