Atomic defects leave telltale optical fingerprints in quantum material
The tiny atomic defects so important for future quantum technologies can be difficult to spot. Fortunately, they leave behind some clues. The defects can alter how a material responds to light, producing a distinctive optical fingerprint that scientists can measure. The challenge is figuring out which fingerprints belong to which defects.
Researchers at the University at Buffalo have discovered that atomic defects in hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) can leave behind distinct optical fingerprints, which could aid in identifying and utilizing these defects for quantum technologies. These defects, which alter how the material responds to light, produce unique fingerprints that scientists can measure.
The team's computer models simulated the effects of various defects on the intensity and polarization of light emitted when h-BN is hit with a laser. By modeling 10 different atomic defects, including those with missing boron or nitrogen atoms and carbon replacements, the researchers found that some defects could dramatically increase light production, potentially making their optical fingerprints easier to measure.
Furthermore, defects with the same atoms can produce different fingerprints depending on their atomic arrangement. These distinctive light responses could eventually enable scientists to experimentally identify not only which atoms are involved in a defect but also precisely how they are arranged. Some h-BN defects can emit single photons, which could carry quantum information for future communication and sensing technologies.
The ultimate goal is to create a material where defects can be precisely controlled to produce quantum light, potentially leading to entire arrays of such defects for use in quantum technologies.
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