US Naval Research Lab Discovers New Platform With a “Golden Touch” for Quantum Tech

(Phys.org) Scientists at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory discovered a new platform for quantum technologies by suspending two-dimensional (2-D) crystals over pores in a slab of gold. This new approach may help develop new materials for secure communication and sensing technologies based on the unique laws of physics at the atomic levels.
The ability to remotely control the piping of energy to a single-photon emitter makes this an attractive system for quantum technology.
“As we get better at controlling how the 2-D semiconductor interacts with pores in the metal film, it’s easy to imagine different technologies that could use these properties.” Robinson said. “Sensors are a good first target, which can take advantage of the atomically thin membranes stretched across the porous metal framework.