Two-dimensional materials are attracting growing interest for next-generation quantum technologies, thanks to their remarkable optical and electronic properties. In these atomically thin crystals, local strain and atomic defects can give rise to quantum emitters capable of producing on-demand one photon at a time, which is crucial for quantum information applications. Researchers from the Nanophotonics Group at the Sapienza University, led by Prof. Rinaldo Trotta, together with teams in Spain and Austria, have developed a hybrid piezoelectric device that allows precise static and dynamic strain control. This approach enabled large energy tuning and a reversible brightening–darkening effect of the emitters. Simulations revealed that the phenomenon stems from a strain-driven redistribution of excitons, offering new routes for integrating 2D quantum light sources into future quantum information technologies.
 

Authors: Rinaldo Trotta, Giuseppe Rocco

Nature Magazine: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41699-025-00588-8