Researchers from Nagaland University and the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) have proposed a new two-dimensional lattice structure that could enable control of unusual quantum states using magnetic fields, with potential applications in quantum sensors, programmable quantum devices and advanced materials.
The study introduces a structure called the “diamond-dodecagon lattice”, in which computer simulations show that electrons can become confined to small regions, producing three flat energy bands. Such states, known as flat bands, are of scientific interest because restricted electron movement can strengthen interactions between electrons and create conditions for unusual quantum phenomena.
The researchers found that applying magnetic flux could modify these flat bands and trigger a topological phase transition. In this phase, the material could act as an electrical insulator in its interior while supporting conducting states along its edges, which can be relatively resistant to certain imperfections.
Dr. Biplab Pal, Assistant Professor in the Department of Physics at Nagaland University, said the lattice geometry could be used to control quantum behaviour and that magnetic fields could tune the electronic states to produce a topological phase.
The findings, co-authored by Dr. Pal and Dr. Joydeep Majhi of IIT Bombay, were published in the Journal of Physics: Condensed Matter (DOI: 10.1088/1361-648X/ae9dd8).
The research is theoretical and simulation-based. The researchers said the proposed structure could be explored experimentally using photonic lattices and ultracold atomic systems. Further work will be needed to establish whether the predicted quantum states can be realised under practical conditions.
Nagaland University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Jagadish Kumar Patnaik welcomed the collaboration, saying the work could contribute to research in quantum materials and emerging quantum technologies. He congratulated the researchers and encouraged further interdisciplinary research in frontier technologies.