Researchers from the Macroscopic Quantum Matter Group lab at University College Cork (UCC) have discovered a new superconducting material called uranium ditelluride (UTe2) that exhibits a spatially varying superconducting state.
This breakthrough in superconductivity could potentially overcome a major obstacle in quantum computing. Lead author and Ph.D. candidate Joe Carroll, in collaboration with UCC Professor of Quantum Physics Séamus Davis, made this groundbreaking discovery, which was published in the prestigious journal Nature.
The researchers explained, “Superconductors possess remarkable properties, such as allowing electricity to flow without any resistance. This is made possible by pairs of electrons binding together to form a macroscopic quantum mechanical fluid, enabling the current to flow without dissipating energy.”
Through their research, the scientists identified Electron Pair-Density Waves created by certain electron pairs, forming unique crystal structures within the superconductor.
They observed the first Pair-Density Wave composed of these unconventional electron pairs, indicating the presence of intrinsic rotational momentum within these pairs.
Carroll expressed, “The discovery of UTe2 as a new type of superconductor is particularly exciting, as physicists have been searching for such a material for decades. The intrinsic angular momentum of the electron pairs in UTe2 suggests the presence of a unique Pair-Density Wave structure.”
This finding holds significant implications for quantum computing, as UTe2 shows promise for addressing challenges related to quantum bit (qubit) stability. The development of topological quantum computing based on UTe2 could lead to more reliable and efficient quantum computers.
Since its discovery five years ago, UTe2 has been the subject of extensive research, indicating its potential as a foundation for topological quantum computing. Microsoft’s investments in this field further highlight the importance of UTe2 in advancing quantum computing technology.
The researchers at the Macroscopic Quantum Matter Group Laboratory are proud to contribute to the understanding of UTe2’s superconducting properties, paving the way for the development of more advanced quantum computers.
Carroll stated, “This discovery will have profound implications for the future of quantum computing. The launch of UCC Futures – Future Quantum and Photonics, led by Professor Seamus Davis and the Macroscopic Quantum Matter Group, will further advance this exciting initiative with the use of cutting-edge microscopy technology.”
Journal Reference:
- Gu, Q., Carroll, et al. Detection of a pair density wave state in UTe2. Nature. DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-05919-7
