Physicists at the Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter (MPSD) in Hamburg have now made a groundbreaking discovery. They showed important new things about how electrons behave in Kagome crystals. This fundamental research reveals a new class of quantum phenomenon. This is a result of the intricate geometry of the lattice, which consists of interlocking triangles and hexagons. The findings, published in the journal Nature, highlight how the unique design of Kagome lattices leads to geometrically frustrated electrons, resulting in exotic phases of matter.
Our investigations centered around the Kagome crystal CsV3Sb5. What they then found — the behavior of the electrons contained within these crystals — was the opposite of what they would expect for non-interacting electrons. In contrast, these electrons do something synchronizing that, revealing the foundational role played by geometry on the collective quantum action of these electrons.
Through this method, the team found the crystal sample’s shape plays a large role in determining electron synchronization patterns. Rectangular samples showed coherent patterns at 90° angles, as did parallelograms at 60° and 120°. This alignment provides an important example of how the crystal geometry can have a direct impact on electron coherence.
Chunyu Guo, the lead author of the study, explained why the study’s findings matter.
“Once coherence can be shaped rather than merely discovered, the frontier of quantum materials could shift from chemistry to architecture.” – Chunyu Guo
MPSD Director Philip Moll underscored the value of the scientific exploration. He went on to discuss how what’s being seen is really starting to look like electrons having a knowledge of their geometrical surroundings.
“It’s as if the electrons know whether they’re in a rectangle or a parallelogram.” – Philip Moll
This transient, dynamic phenomenon gives rise to long-range electron coherence — a state that may have far-reaching consequences in future quantum material applications.
“Kagome metals are giving us a glimpse of coherence that is both robust and shape-sensitive.” – Philip Moll
Theoretical and experimental researchers are just beginning to plunge into this newly uncovered realm of quantum behavior. The ability to exploit and control electron coherence heralds truly exhilarating prospects. This frontiers work has the potential to open new pathways to design quantum materials with groundbreaking properties, reorienting the landscape of established limits.
As researchers continue to explore this newly discovered form of quantum behavior, the potential to harness and manipulate electron coherence opens up exciting possibilities. The team believes that this work could pave the way for innovative designs in quantum materials, shifting traditional boundaries.