Story perspectives

Xinjiang Scientists Create Record-Breaking UV Crystal for Nuclear Clocks

4/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Xinjiang scientists have developed the first crystal capable of producing ultraviolet light for future thorium nuclear clocks.
The fluorinated borate compound emits at 145.2 nanometers, surpassing the previous 150-nanometer record set by potassium beryllium fluoroborate.
The team led by Pan Shilie published the study in Advanced Materials.
The findings could enable ultra-precise, portable clocks for GPS-denied navigation and advance practical thorium-229 nuclear clocks.

1 of 1

Story summary

Xinjiang scientists have developed the first crystal capable of producing ultraviolet light for future thorium nuclear clocks.
The fluorinated borate compound emits at 145.2 nanometers, surpassing the previous 150-nanometer record set by potassium beryllium fluoroborate.
The team led by Pan Shilie published the study in Advanced Materials.
The findings could enable ultra-precise, portable clocks for GPS-denied navigation and advance practical thorium-229 nuclear clocks.