Groundbreaking Graphene Discovery Opens Path to Quantum Computing with Topological States

Scientists from UBC and other institutions discovered topological quantum states in graphene, unlocking new possibilities for quantum computing.

Written by Gadgets 360 Staff | Updated: 24 January 2025 21:51 IST

Groundbreaking Graphene Discovery Opens Path to Quantum Computing with Topological States

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Graphene Breakthrough Reveals Topological Quantum States for Quantum Computing

Highlights

Twisted graphene system exhibits unique topological electronic properti
Topological states in graphene could advance quantum computing tech
Edge currents unaffected by external disruptions, thanks to topology

A groundbreaking discovery in graphene research has unveiled a new class of quantum states in a precisely engineered structure. Scientists from the University of British Columbia (UBC), the University of Washington, and Johns Hopkins University identified topological electronic crystals in a twisted bilayer–trilayer graphene system. The structure was created by stacking two-dimensional graphene layers with a slight rotational twist, leading to transformative changes in electronic properties.

Discovery and Methodology

According to a study published in Nature, the system utilises a moiré pattern formed when two graphene layers are misaligned with a small rotational angle. This pattern alters the way electrons move, slowing them down and introducing unique behaviours. Electrons in this twisted configuration exhibit vortex-like motion, revolutionising the understanding of graphene's electrical properties.
Prof. Joshua Folk, associated with UBC's Physics and Astronomy Department and the Blusson Quantum Matter Institute, explained to phys.org that the geometric interference effect enables the electrons to freeze into an ordered array while maintaining a synchronised rotational motion. This unique behaviour allows electric current to flow along the edges of the sample while the interior remains non-conductive.

Key Observations and Implications

As per reports, Ruiheng Su, an undergraduate researcher at UBC, observed this phenomenon during experiments on a twisted graphene sample prepared by Dr. Dacen Waters from the University of Washington. The locked yet rotating electron array displayed a paradoxical combination of immobility and conductivity, a property attributed to topology.

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Prof. Matthew Yankowitz from the University of Washington highlighted to phs.org, that the edge currents are determined by fundamental constants, remaining unaffected by external disruptions. Such resilience stems from the topology of the system, likened to a Möbius strip where deformation does not alter the intrinsic properties.

Applications in Quantum Information

The discovery is expected to open pathways for advancements in quantum information systems. Coupling topological electronic crystals with superconductivity could enable the creation of robust qubits, paving the way for topological quantum computing. Researchers anticipate that this development will significantly enhance the field of quantum technologies.

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Further reading: Graphene, Quantum Computing, Topological States, Quantum Information, Superconductivity, Graphene Research, Moiré Pattern, Topological Crystals, University of British Columbia, Quantum Technologies