Project information
Quantum materials for applications in sustainable technologies (QM4ST)

Quantum technologies encompass several new multidisciplinary research areas at the interface of physics, chemistry, mathematics, computer science, and materials science and carry a high technological potential. So far, most attention has been devoted to the field of quantum computers, which aim to provide new information and communication technologies by harnessing fundamental rules of quantum physics. However, exploiting quantum mechanical principles can boost progress in other areas of research and development as well. Especially this applies to modelling and design of new materials and to control of processes which underlie new devices, with a potential for a strong impact on development of new emission free sustainable technologies. Examples of rapidly developing areas in this respect include spintronics, superconductivity, photocatalysis, electrolysis, fuel cells or photonics. New discoveries in these fields quickly find their use in applications which promote environmentally friendly energy production and its efficient use. This includes green hydrogen and ammonia production for renewable energy systems, new fuel cells, multiferroic materials for data storage and computer memories, microelectronics components, sensors and other devices. Revolutionary new approaches in theory and mathematical simulation together with development of new experimental techniques enable design and synthesis of quantum materials such as nanostructures, thin films or doped systems and promise further discoveries of new functional materials with emergent properties.