Basic Research Needs Workshop on Quantum Materials for Energy Relevant Technology

Imagine future computers that can perform calculations a million times faster than today’s most powerful supercomputers at only a tiny fraction of the energy cost. Imagine power being generated, stored, and then transported across the national grid with nearly no loss. Imagine ultrasensitive sensors that keep us in the loop on what is happening at home or work, warn us when something is going wrong around us, keep us safe from pathogens, and provide unprecedented control of manufacturing and chemical processes. And imagine smart windows, smart clothes, smart buildings, supersmart personal electronics, and many other items — all made from materials that can change their properties “on demand” to carry out the functions we want. The key to attaining these technological possibilities in the 21st century is a new class of materials largely unknown to the general public at this time but destined to become as familiar as silicon. Welcome to the world of quantum materials — materials in which the extraordinary effects of quantum mechanics give rise to exotic and often incredible properties. To realize the tantalizing potential of quantum materials, there is much basic scientific research to be done. Recognizing the high potential impact of quantum materials, nations around the world are already investing in this effort. We must learn how the astonishing properties of quantum materials can be tailored to address our most pressing technological needs, and we must dramatically improve our ability to synthesize, characterize, and control quantum materials. To accelerate the progress of quantum materials research, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science, Office of Basic Energy Sciences (BES), sponsored a “Basic Research Needs Workshop on Quantum Materials for Energy-relevant Technology,” which was held near Washington, D.C. on February 8–10, 2016. Attended by more than 100 leading national and international scientific experts in the synthesis, characterization, and theory of quantum materials, the workshop identified four priority research directions (PRDs) that will lay the foundation to better understand quantum materials and harness their rich technological potential.