At a Glance
- Rutgers scientists discovered a new quantum state by layering a Weyl semimetal and a spin ice material, revealing unprecedented phenomena under intense magnetic fields.
- The layered structure exhibits a rare six-fold electronic anisotropy, meaning its ability to conduct electricity is different when measured along six specific directions.
- As the magnetic field increases, the system’s behavior surprisingly shifts to a two-fold pattern, indicating the emergence of a previously unknown symmetry-broken quantum phase.
- Theoretical models suggest this effect is caused by the spin ice’s magnetism scattering electrons within the special topological states of the Weyl semimetal at their interface.
- This breakthrough in fundamental physics could lead to the design of new, ultra-sensitive quantum sensors that can operate effectively in extreme conditions, such as space.
Scientists at Rutgers University have discovered a new quantum state of matter at the boundary between two exotic materials, a finding that challenges our fundamental understanding of how matter can exist in certain conditions. Described in the journal Science Advances, this new phase, known as a quantum liquid crystal, behaves unlike any of the four traditional states: solid, liquid, gas, or plasma. The discovery emerged from layering a special conducting material with an unusual magnetic insulator and observing their interaction under extreme conditions, opening a new frontier for quantum research.
The experiment involved a precisely engineered “sandwich” of two materials, each known for its bizarre properties. One layer was a Weyl semimetal, a topological material where electrons can flow with incredible speed and efficiency. The other was a spin ice, a frustrated magnet where magnetic moments are arranged chaotically, similar to protons in water ice. By building this atomic-scale structure, known as a heterostructure, and subjecting it to extremely low temperatures and powerful magnetic fields at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, the researchers could study how the two materials interacted with each other.
At the interface, the team observed a rare phenomenon known as electronic anisotropy, where the material conducts electricity differently depending on the direction. Initially, the electrical flow was weakest in six specific directions. As the magnetic field grew stronger, this behavior abruptly shifted, and the electrons began to flow preferentially in just two opposite directions. This sudden change is a hallmark of rotational symmetry breaking, a key indicator that the electrons had organized themselves into a completely new, highly ordered quantum state.
This breakthrough not only reveals a new way that matter can behave but also offers a pathway to advanced technologies. According to the researchers, understanding and controlling the properties of this quantum liquid crystal could lead to the development of new generations of ultra-sensitive quantum sensors. These devices could be designed to operate in extreme environments where precision is critical, such as in deep space missions or inside powerful scientific machines, demonstrating how fundamental discoveries can pave the way for future innovation.
References
- MacPherson, K. & Rutgers University. (2025, July 31). New quantum state of matter found at interface of exotic materials. Phys.Org; Rutgers University. https://phys.org/news/2025-07-quantum-state-interface-exotic-materials.html
- Wu, T.-C., Chang, Y., Wu, A.-K., Terilli, M., Wen, F., Kareev, M., Choi, E. S., Graf, D., Zhang, Q., Gu, L., Wang, Z., Pixley, J. H., & Chakhalian, J. (2025). Electronic anisotropy and rotational symmetry breaking at a Weyl semimetal/spin ice interface. Science Advances, 11(24), eadr6202. https://doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.adr6202
