Investigations of 2D magnetic phenomena

Intrinsic magnetism and localized magnetic phenomena in two-dimensional quantum materials can be harnessed by quantum technologies. The MonArk Quantum Foundry is researching and developing new ways to investigate 2D magnetic quantum materials and how non-magnetic 2D quantum materials interact with nanoscale magnetic moments. This research thrust seeks multi-pronged advancements in characterization, predictive theory, device fabrication, and materials growth. These activities are enhancing the using the capabilities provided by 2D-QMaPs of the MonArk Quantum Foundry.

Quantum spin liquids: The ultimate goal of this research thrust is to create quantum spin liquid (QSL) states in a variety of 2D materials (e.g., CrBr3, CrI3, CrSiTe3, CrGeTe3, and RuCl3) via an original strategy based on strain-engineering of low-dimensional magnetic systems. Along the way, other striking effects will be discovered in these systems too, such as a precise control of magnetic anisotropy, as well as of the Curie and Néel temperatures, and the induction of magnetic transitions. Quantum spin liquids form an extremely unusual state of matter in which spins are highly correlated and fluctuate coherently down to the lowest temperatures, but without symmetry breaking and without the formation of any static magnetism. This novel state of matter has the potential to not only result in the development of a theory that will be able to explain high-temperature superconductivity. It can also provide a path to a robust quantum computing technology, as well as applications in quantum information, because of its associated topological properties. 

Nanoscale magnetic imaging: The MonArk Quantum Foundry is working with industrial partners to adapt and improve diamond-based nanoscale imaging and sensing of magnetic fields. Research goals include integrating nanoscale magnetometers based on nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers with nanophotonic engineering that maximize sensitivity and spatial resolution. In addition to optimized performance, the development considerations for these next-generation nanoscale magnetometers also emphasize scalability and versatility (in other experimental platforms), which are crucial for their translation into a commercial line of products. Once developed, these probes will be used at the MonArk Quantum Foundry and be integrated with the characterization infrastructure of the 2D-QMaPs. They will also be used to perform nanoscale studies of valley-polarized currents in 2D semiconductors, 2D ferromagnetism, and magnetic doping in 2D materials.