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New quantum materials could dramatically boost the search for dark matter

Researchers identified three unconventional quantum materials that can amplify tiny dark matter signals, outperforming existing detectors. These materials, including titanium diselenide, could detect light dark matter particles with unprecedented sensitivity, potentially unlocking a new frontier in dark matter research.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2026

Major step for flat and adjustable optics

Scientists at Linköping University have made a significant breakthrough in creating controllable flat optics using nanostructures on a flat surface. By precisely controlling the distance between antennas, they achieved up to tenfold improvement in performance, opening up new avenues for applications such as video holograms and biomedic...

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 21, 2025

Creating switchable plasmons in plastics

Scientists at Linköping University develop optical nanoantennas made from a conducting polymer, allowing for controllable nano-optical components. The antennas react to light and can be switched on and off, making them suitable for applications such as smart windows.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 9, 2019

Plasmons triggered in nanotube quantum wells

Scientists at Rice University and Tokyo Metropolitan University developed a novel way to manipulate light at the quantum scale by using single-walled carbon nanotubes as plasmonic quantum confinement fields. The discovery could lead to the development of unique lasers and other optoelectronic devices.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 16, 2018

Physicists have learned to change the wavelength of Tamm plasmons

Researchers from Siberian Federal University and L. V. Kirensky Institute of Physics predicted the structure to control Tamm plasmon wavelength using external fields or heating. They achieved a hybrid Tamm plasmon by incorporating a liquid crystal layer in a multilayer mirror, enabling color change through heating or electrification.

SourceSiberian Federal University·JournalJournal of the Optical Society of America B·DateJan 24, 2018

Graphene plasmons reach the infrared

Researchers at Technical University of Denmark have demonstrated efficient absorption enhancement at a wavelength of 2 micrometers by graphene plasmons. This breakthrough brings graphene into the regime of telecommunication applications.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateNov 14, 2016

On-chip observation of THz graphene plasmons

Scientists developed a technique to image THz photocurrents with nanoscale resolution, visualizing strongly compressed THz waves in a graphene photodetector. The imaging technique, called THz photocurrent nanoscopy, provides unprecedented possibilities for characterizing optoelectronic properties at THz frequencies.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 4, 2016

Nanolight at the edge

Graphene-based technologies enable ultra-small optical nanodevices by capturing light in record-small volumes. The researchers identified two types of plasmons - edge and sheet modes - with unique properties that can channel electromagnetic energy in one dimension.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalNature Photonics·DateMar 21, 2016

Using plasmonics to transmit more data

Researchers at Northwestern University developed a new scheme using plasmonics to control infrared plasmons, enabling fast transmission of massive data. By modulating light signals in the near-infrared wavelength region, they can potentially switch signals in optical fibers with high speeds.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Photonics·DateFeb 22, 2016

'Magic' sphere for information transfer

Researchers at Lomonosov Moscow State University develop a sphere that manipulates electromagnetic radiation on scales shorter than its wavelength, enabling faster photonic devices. The sphere's interaction with light produces a resonance similar to plasmonics, but with weaker damping, making it suitable for various applications.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 21, 2015

Flatland optics with graphene

Researchers successfully trapped and controlled light using graphene-based optical antennas, demonstrating the fundamental principles of conventional optics. The discovery paves the way for the development of compact and faster photonic devices and circuits, which could revolutionize signal processing and computing.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalScience·DateMay 23, 2014

Taming light with graphene

Scientists visualize the trapping and confinement of light on graphene, making it a promising candidate for optical information processing. Graphene plasmons can be used to electrically control light, enabling new optical switches and applications in medicine, bio-detection, solar cells, and quantum information processing.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalNature·DateJun 20, 2012