Scientists Unveil Remarkable Quantum States in Twisted Graphene Layers

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Researchers at the University of British Columbia have discovered new quantum states within twisted layers of graphene, a material celebrated for its unique properties. The study, published in the journal Nature, reveals that certain arrangements of electrons in graphene can freeze into a perfectly ordered pattern, permitting electric current to flow along the edges while remaining non-conductive in the interior.

The phenomenon occurs when two layers of graphene are slightly rotated, creating a moiré pattern that alters electron behavior. According to Joshua Folk, a physics professor and co-author of the study, this twist results in an electronic effect where electrons become immobilized inside the material, akin to a Wigner crystal. However, the topological electronic crystal formed allows for effortless electron movement at its edges.

This discovery could pave the way for advancements in energy-efficient electronic devices and fault-tolerant quantum computing. The researchers emphasize that the stability and robust quantum behavior of these materials could withstand external disturbances, making them significant for future technological applications.

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