Researchers have discovered the strongest topological conductor yet, in the form of thin crystal samples that have a spiral-staircase structure. The realization of so-called topological materials—which exhibit exotic, defect-resistant properties and are expected to have applications in electronics, optics, quantum computing, and other fields—has opened up a new realm in materials discovery. Read more »
The Electronic Structure of a “Kagome” Material
Scientists have verified exotic electronic properties predicted to emerge in a ferromagnetic material with “kagome” (trihexagonal) lattice symmetry. The greater understanding of kagome materials afforded by this work helps open up a new path toward goals such as ultralow-power electronic devices and quantum computing. Read more »
ARPES Overturns V2O3 Metal-to-Insulator Theory
Researchers report on angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES) measurements performed on the transition-metal oxide V2O3. The results overturn a decade-old theory about metal-to-insulator transitions in this material and provide a spectroscopic benchmark test for future models. Read more »
A Novel Quasi-1D Topological Insulator
The tantalizing prospect of energy-saving, ultralow-power electronics has led to a vigorous search for optimal topological insulator materials. Now, an international team of scientists has discovered the first of a new class of topological insulators with unique properties: quasi-1D bismuth iodide. Read more »
New Fuel Cell Design Powered by Graphene-Wrapped Nanoparticles
Hydrogen is the lightest and most plentiful element on Earth and could serve as a carbon-free, virtually limitless energy source. Recently, researchers working at the ALS and the Molecular Foundry developed a promising new materials recipe based on magnesium nanocrystals and graphene for a hydrogen fuel cell with improved performance in key areas. Read more »
Weyl Fermions Discovered After 85 Years
Weyl fermions, elusive massless particles first theorized 85 years ago, have now been detected as emergent quasiparticles in synthetic crystals of the semimetal TaAs. The discovery could allow for the nearly free and efficient flow of electricity, as well as the realization of many fascinating topological quantum phenomena.
An Iridate with Fermi Arcs
Researchers have discovered that “Fermi arcs,” much-debated features found in the electronic structure of high-temperature superconducting (HTSC) cuprates, can also be found in an iridate (iridium oxide) compound—strontium iridate. Read more »
