Revolution in quantum computing: Researchers discover new materials!

Revolution in quantum computing: Researchers discover new materials!

In recent years, quantum computing has emerged as one of the most promising areas of research that could revolutionize information processing. At the heart of this technology are quantum bits, also known as qubits, which can assume several states at the same time thanks to their ability to superpose. While classical computers store information in bits that only represent states 0 or 1, qubits can be in a state of superposition and thus significantly increase computing power. [uni-kiel.de] reported that two qubits are capable of simultaneously representing all four combinations (00, 01, 10, 11).

One of the key challenges in quantum computing is decoherence, a process that affects the stability of these quantum superpositions. Prof. Dr. Nahid Talebi from the Christian Albrechts University in Kiel explains that cooling to minimize disruptions is helpful, but complex and expensive. Current research focuses on new materials that can enable stable quantum bits at higher temperatures.

Hexagonal boron nitride as a new material

A new study published March 8, 2025 in Nature Communications explores hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) as a promising material for quantum information applications. Color centers in boron nitride can emit light and function as qubits. However, the coherence of these color centers is unstable. The research paper, submitted on January 14, 2025 and revised on February 10, 2025, is titled “Decoherence time of the ground state spin of $V_{B}$ centers in hexagonal boron nitride” and was authored by Fatemeh Tarighi Tabesh and her co-authors. The results show that the Hahn echo coherence time of the $V_{B}$ electron spin at room temperature is about 30 µs, which represents an advance in understanding the decoherence of defects in hBN and lays the basis for practical applications in quantum technologies. [arxiv.org]

Another relevant aspect of this research is the new method that makes it possible to specifically bring defects in boron nitride into a superposition state and read them out individually. Here, an electron-driven photon source is used to generate flashes of light that bring defects into the superposition state. These flashes of light last one and a half femtoseconds, so they are sufficient to achieve the desired superposition states.

Future prospects and applications

The potential of quantum computing extends far beyond basic research. [das-wissen.de] explains that advances in this area can provide solutions to complex problems that are beyond the reach of traditional computers. Applications could include cryptography, materials science, pharmaceuticals and complex optimization problems. Quantum entanglement, which allows quantum bits to change state regardless of physical distance, represents another significant advantage.

Companies such as Google, IBM and Honeywell have already made significant progress, making quantum computers available via cloud platforms. However, to realize the full potential benefits of this technology, interdisciplinary collaboration and investment in research and development are necessary. The challenge of ensuring the stability of qubits remains a central issue that will shape the further development of quantum computing.