Empa Unveils New Lab To Unlock Carbon-Based Quantum Potential For Sustainable Technologies

The lab focuses on nanographene and graphene nanoribbons, which are derived from graphene but reduced to dimensions of just a few atoms in size. These nanostructures have precisely defined atomic architectures, enabling researchers to introduce specific quantum effects into their electronic properties. This level of control is critical for studying phenomena such as spin states, which are essential for advancing quantum computing technologies.

The lab’s advanced scanning tunneling microscopes (STM), equipped with microwave capabilities, allow researchers to visualize and manipulate the quantum states of these nanostructures. They can control spin superposition states by applying high-frequency radiation, a key requirement for developing functional quantum devices. This capability is particularly valuable for understanding how multiple linked spins in carbon-based materials can interact, offering advantages over systems based on individual atoms.

The research aims to develop a deeper understanding of the electronic properties of these nanostructures and their potential applications. While current experiments require high-technology laboratory setups, the long-term goal is to create devices that operate under ambient conditions, potentially enabling new types of sensors or quantum computing components. Achieving this will depend on further refining the control over quantum effects in carbon-based systems.

Integrating STM with microwave technology represents a significant advancement in studying quantum magnetism. This approach allows for precise manipulation of spin states, providing insights into the electronic properties of carbon-based nanostructures and their potential applications in quantum technologies.