UCR Scientists Steer Quantum Wave Functions Across 2 Layers, Opening Paths to Solar and Quantum Devices
Updated
Updated · UC Riverside · May 27
UCR Scientists Steer Quantum Wave Functions Across 2 Layers, Opening Paths to Solar and Quantum Devices
1 articles · Updated · UC Riverside · May 27
Three newly published QuVET papers show UC Riverside-led researchers can control where a positively charged quantum wave function sits in a two-layer ultrathin device using an electric field.
One Physical Review Letters study found the wave function could be placed in the first layer, the second, or both at once in quantum superposition, directly changing the material’s optical properties.
The work centers on vibronics—the coupling of vibrations and electronic quantum states—with researchers aiming to use crystal vibrations as a switch that turns quantum transitions on and off.
That control could help synthetic materials separate light-generated excitations into usable charges before energy is lost as heat or light, improving solar-energy conversion.
QuVET, launched 2 years ago, says the same physics may also support future quantum photonic, computing, secure-communications and sensing technologies.
This quantum breakthrough uses atom-thick materials. Can we overcome the immense cost and precision challenges to manufacture them for real-world use?
Can artificial quantum systems for solar power ever truly match the hyper-efficiency perfected by nature over billions of years?