Breakthrough in Superconductivity: New Material Shows Promise for Room-Temperature Applications

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Researchers at Columbia University have discovered that ultrathin sheets of tungsten diselenide, when arranged in a twisted moiré pattern, exhibit superconducting properties at temperatures just above absolute zero. This finding expands the potential of superconductors, materials that can conduct electricity without resistance, which are critical for various scientific and technological applications.

The research team, led by physicist Cory Dean, initially investigated graphene's superconducting capabilities but faced challenges in maintaining its conductive state under low temperatures. In contrast, tungsten diselenide has a direct band gap that allows for efficient electron transitions, making it a promising alternative.

While superconductors typically require extreme conditions to function, the study raises hopes for future research into achieving room-temperature superconductors, which could revolutionize energy transmission and storage. The discovery was published in the journal Nature and paves the way for exploring other two-dimensional materials in pursuit of enhancing superconductivity at higher temperatures.

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