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06.12.202406.12.2024

Breakthrough in Graphene Research: Unlocking the Secrets of Fractionally Charged Electrons

Physicists at MIT, Johns Hopkins University, and Harvard University/University of California, Berkeley have made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of graphene research. They have found an explanation for why electrons in pentalayer moiré graphene carry fractional charges even in the absence of a magnetic field. This phenomenon, known as the fractional quantum anomalous Hall effect, has been observed in twisted molybdenum ditelluride (MoTe2) and pentalayer moiré graphene. The researchers suggest that an interaction-induced topological “flat” band in the material’s electronic structure may be responsible for this effect.

Forecast for 6 months: Expect a surge in research funding for graphene-related projects, as scientists and policymakers recognize the potential of this material for revolutionary technological advancements.
Forecast for 1 year: Within the next year, we can expect to see the development of new materials and technologies that leverage the unique properties of graphene, such as superconductivity and insulating behavior.
Forecast for 5 years: In the next five years, graphene-based technologies are likely to become a significant contributor to the global economy, with applications in fields such as energy storage, electronics, and medicine.
Forecast for 10 years: By the end of the decade, graphene research is expected to have led to the development of new industries and job markets, with a significant impact on the global economy and society as a whole.

Tags: development, discovery, medicine, projects, research, technologies