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Twisting quantum potential into reality

Researchers at the University of Technology Sydney have discovered a new method for controlling tiny quantum emitters in hexagonal boron nitride by twisting its layered structure. This breakthrough brings them closer to practical applications in quantum computing, secure communication and ultra-sensitive sensing.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 19, 2026

Long live the graphene valley state

Researchers at ETH Zurich have discovered a potential platform for spin qubits in bilayer graphene, with ultra-long-lived valley states. The study finds that the valley degree of freedom in BLG is associated with quantum states that can survive for over half a second.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Physics·DateJan 17, 2024

Carbon dots dash toward 'green' recycling role

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a simple way to recycle waste carbon dioxide into valuable fuel using nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dots. The dots proved nearly as efficient as copper in converting CO2 into small batches of ethylene and ethanol, with the ability to keep their catalytic activity for a long time.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 16, 2016

Researchers uncover new light harvesting potentials

A quantum-confined bandgap narrowing mechanism has been found to extend UV absorption into the visible light range, enabling design of high-efficiency paintable solar cells and water purification using sunlight. The researchers mixed TiO2 particles with graphene quantum dots, resulting in a composite that absorbs visible light.

SourceGriffith University·JournalChemical Communications·DateJul 13, 2016

Coal yields plenty of graphene quantum dots

Rice University scientists have discovered a simple method for producing graphene quantum dots in bulk from coal, opening up new opportunities for medical imaging, sensing, and electronic applications. The process allows for control over the size of the dots, which can be tuned to produce different fluorescent wavelengths.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 6, 2013

Professor uses diamond to produce graphene quantum dots and nano-ribbons of controlled structure

Researchers at Kansas State University have developed a novel process to produce graphene quantum dots and nano-ribbons with controlled shape and size, revolutionizing electronics and optoelectronics. The process uses diamond knives to cleave graphite into nanoblocks, which are then exfoliated to produce ultrasmall sheets of carbon atoms.

SourceKansas State University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 17, 2012

Graphene quantum dots: The next big small thing

A Rice University-led team discovered a one-step chemical process to create graphene quantum dots from carbon fiber. The sub-5 nanometer carbon-based quantum dots are highly soluble and have controllable size, with potential for biomedical imaging, protein analysis, and cell tracking.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateJan 12, 2012