45-Year Physics Mystery Shows a Path To Quantum Transistors

New submitter cyberspittle sends this research report from the University of Michigan: An odd, iridescent material that's puzzled physicists for decades turns out to be an exotic state of matter that could open a new path to quantum computers and other next-generation electronics. ... The researchers provide the first direct evidence that samarium hexaboride, abbreviated SmB6, is a topological insulator (abstract). Topological insulators are, to physicists, an exciting class of solids that conduct electricity like a metal across their surface, but block the flow of current like rubber through their interior. They behave in this two-faced way despite that their chemical composition is the same throughout. ... This deeper understanding of samarium hexaboride raises the possibility that engineers might one day route the flow of electric current in quantum computers like they do on silicon in conventional electronics.

Comments

Re:Fluff piece

[Anonymous Coward]

It is short on explanations, but one of the natures of Quantum Mechanics effects is that it happens most often on the micro scale (things like single atoms). So if this material if it insulates/isolates a 1 molecule thick surface it "might" have some use (taking it a step closer) in creating the very small circuits that can show some kind of Quantum properties.

Of course 3 Degree Kelvin is really cold, so dont expect it in the desktop size anytime soon