Russian researchers create a hybrid nanomaterial based on a topological insulator and fullerene C₆₀, opening new possibilities for quantum computers, spintronics, and ultra-fast molecular electronics.
Russian scientists have developed an advanced hybrid nanomaterial that could accelerate the development of quantum computers, molecular electronics, and spintronic devices.
The breakthrough was achieved by researchers from Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU) and the Institute of Automation and Control Processes. The new material combines two unique components: a topological insulator and fullerene molecules.
A Unique Combination of Materials
At the core of the innovation is a thin atomic film of bismuth selenide, a well-known topological insulator. This material has unusual electronic properties: it does not conduct electricity inside, but allows electric current to move freely along its surface due to special quantum states of electrons.
On top of this surface, scientists placed a single layer of spherical carbon molecules known as Fullerene C60. These molecules form a dense, stable structure while preserving their individual characteristics. The combination results in a hybrid system with fundamentally new electronic properties.
Controlling Electronic Structure
One of the key achievements of the project is the ability to precisely control the material’s electronic structure. Researchers accomplished this through intercalation—the insertion of potassium atoms between fullerene molecules.
This process allows scientists to fine-tune:
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Electrical conductivity
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Charge transport properties
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Other key electronic parameters
Such precise control is critical for creating miniature electronic components used in molecular electronics and spintronics—technologies that rely not only on electron charge but also on electron spin.
Toward Next-Generation Memory Devices
According to Alexander Davydenko, Associate Professor at FEFU, the material could serve as a foundation for next-generation memory technologies.
The team plans to add a ferromagnetic layer to test whether the C₆₀ layer can transfer spin momentum from the surface of the topological insulator. If successful, this would enable the creation of memory cells that switch states using short electrical pulses—without mechanical movement or excessive heat generation.
This could significantly increase data processing speed while reducing energy consumption.
Applications Beyond Quantum Computing
The potential uses of the hybrid nanomaterial extend beyond quantum computers and memory systems. It could also be applied in:
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Ultra-fast molecular electronics
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Spintronic devices
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Highly sensitive photodetectors
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Research on strongly correlated electron systems
The research was supported by the Russian Science Foundation and carried out using the advanced infrastructure of the FEFU research campus.
Why This Discovery Matters
This development represents a major step toward practical quantum and spin-based technologies. By combining a topological insulator with fullerene C₆₀ and enabling precise electronic control, scientists are building the technological foundation for faster, smaller, and more energy-efficient electronic systems of the future.
