UTS Researchers Tune Quantum Light in 2D hBN by Twisting Layers
Updated
Updated · ScienceDaily · Jul 18
UTS Researchers Tune Quantum Light in 2D hBN by Twisting Layers
1 articles · Updated · ScienceDaily · Jul 18
Summary
University of Technology Sydney scientists showed that twisting atom-thin hexagonal boron nitride layers can strongly tune quantum emitters, changing the color and wavelength of the light they produce.
The team repeatedly lifted, rotated and restacked the layered material, giving continuous control over emission rather than locking devices to a single twist angle.
Researchers said the shift was larger than expected and exploits hBN’s key advantage over conventional hosts such as diamond or silicon carbide: its thin, reconfigurable structure.
The study, published in Science Advances, points to more practical building blocks for quantum computing, secure communications and ultra-sensitive sensing.
Beyond tuning light, what entirely new physics will twisting layered materials unlock for technology?
Can twisting atomic layers scale from a lab feat to a manufacturing process for the quantum internet?
With quantum threats rising, should we build new secure hardware or just upgrade existing software?
UTS Breakthrough: Mechanical Twisting of hBN Yields Unprecedented Control Over Quantum Light Sources
Overview
A major breakthrough led by UTS in June 2026 introduces a new way to control quantum light sources by twisting atomically thin layers of hexagonal boron nitride (hBN). This precise twisting creates moiré superlattices, which generate unique electrostatic patterns and enable unprecedented control over the basic building blocks of quantum systems. By harnessing these properties, researchers can now manipulate quantum light with high precision, paving the way for advances in quantum computing, secure communications, and sensitive quantum sensors. This innovation marks a significant step toward making practical quantum technologies a reality.