Basically, electron backscattering is when electrons collide and move in the opposite direction, which is usually a problem. Eliminating this was an essential step to achieve the quantization of the quantum valley Hall effect.
The Future of Quantum Electronics: Controlling Kink States
In the pursuit of developing advanced quantum electronics, researchers have uncovered a fascinating phenomenon – the presence of kink states. They believe these pathways could form the backbone of a quantum interconnect network. Actually, a quantum interconnect network is a system that allows quantum computers to communicate with each other.
A team of researchers, led by Jun Zhu, professor of physics at Penn State, has made a significant breakthrough in the fabrication and control of these kink states. This new method regulates electrical current differently than a conventional switch. Usually, a gate controls the current in a conventional switch. However, the researchers have shown a new way. They remove and rebuild the road that the electricity travels on.
Bernal Bilayer Graphene
The important part of this discovery is the special properties of Bernal bilayer graphene. Two extremely thin carbon layers, each only one atom thick, make up this material. Indeed, the arrangement of these layers is unique. This arrangement gives the material unusual electronic properties. Specifically, the researchers used a stack of graphite and hexagonal boron nitride as a global gate. Actually, a global gate is a device that controls electronic signals. This setup allowed them to get rid of electron backscattering. Basically, electron backscattering is when electrons collide and move in the opposite direction, which is usually a problem. Eliminating this was an essential step to achieve the quantization of the quantum valley Hall effect. The quantum valley Hall effect is a phenomenon where electrical current flows along the edges of a material without resistance.
As Ke Huang, the first author and a graduate student at Penn State, explains,
The amazing thing about our devices is that we can make electrons moving in opposite directions not collide with one another — which is called backscattering — even though they share the same pathways.
Quantum Wires
This observation of a ‘quantized‘ resistance value is a key step towards the potential application of kink states as quantum wires for transmitting quantum information.
The researchers also found that the quantization of the kink states remains stable even at higher temperatures, a significant advantage for practical applications. As Jun Zhu states,
Quantum effects are often fragile and only survive at cryogenic temperatures of a few Kelvin. The higher temperature we can make this work, the more likely it can be used in applications.
With the development of a quantum highway system that can carry electrons without collision, programmable to direct current flow, and potentially scalable, the researchers have laid a strong foundation for future studies exploring the fundamental science and application potentials of this system. As Jun Zhu notes,
To realize a quantum interconnect system, we still have a long way to go
The work published in Science showcases the potential of kink states in quantum electronics, paving the way for advancements in areas such as advanced sensors, lasers, and quantum computers.
References
‘Kink state’ control may provide pathway to quantum electronics | Eberly College of Science. (2024, August 6). https://science.psu.edu/news/kink-state-control-may-provide-pathway-quantum-electronics
Additionally, visit ENTECH Online to stay updated on the latest developments in STEM education and explore how you can turn your own passions into a rewarding career.
- Author
- Latest Posts
Until 2023, Dr. Charudatta S Pathak held multiple academic positions, including lecturer, assistant professor, professor, dean, principal, director, and vice chancellor at public and private universities across India. From 2008 to 2010, he held the position of project lead in the CAE department at a European multinational corporation. Throughout his 28-year professional experience, he observed a requirement for reliable publications aimed at youngsters in grades 8 to 12, specifically for early-stage career planning. He initiated the establishment of ENTECH Digital Magazine, a complimentary periodical released on a monthly basis, accessible via stemconference.in and magzter.com. Teenagers with a keen interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and aspiring to pursue professional paths in these domains can consider reading ENTECH Digital Magazine.