Story perspectives

Penn State Develops Efficient Film for Quantum Communication

3/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Pennsylvania State University researchers developed an ultrathin film of barium titanate that converts electron signals to light signals over ten times more efficiently than before.
This improvement enhances electro-optic properties for long-distance quantum communication and data centers.
Current microwave signals weaken, limiting effectiveness.
The team plans to apply this design approach to other materials to boost performance.
The advance could cut data-center energy use and improve quantum information transfer.

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Story summary

The Pennsylvania State University researchers developed an ultrathin film of barium titanate that converts electron signals to light signals over ten times more efficiently than before.
This improvement enhances electro-optic properties for long-distance quantum communication and data centers.
Current microwave signals weaken, limiting effectiveness.
The team plans to apply this design approach to other materials to boost performance.
The advance could cut data-center energy use and improve quantum information transfer.