A team led by Associate Professor Dong Zhaogang from the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) has developed a method to tune the emission wavelength of quantum light at room temperature using low-voltage electrical control. Published in Advanced Materials, their study leverages nanostructures and a novel physical process to achieve unprecedented control over quantum light, paving the way for advancements in secure quantum communication and photonic computing.

The research centers on a hybrid system combining perovskite quantum dots (QDs) with nanostructured antimony telluride (Sb₂Te₃), a phase-change material. By harnessing surface-enhanced Landau damping-a process where surface resonances generate high-energy electrons—the team achieved a remarkable light emission energy shift of over 570 meV, far exceeding previous efforts.

"Antimony telluride’s unique properties allow us to manipulate light-electron interactions dynamically," explained Associate Professor Dong. When illuminated, the material's crystalline nanodisks produce “hot electrons” that alter the QDs’ energy levels, enabling precise control over the emitted light's color.

Crucially, the system responds to low-power electrical signals. Applying a small voltage (–4 to +4 volts) boosted emission intensity 22-fold while modulating the wavelength. This tunability, achieved without extreme conditions, makes the platform ideal for integrated photonic circuits.

"Landau damping converts nanoscale oscillations into usable energy, giving us unparalleled control over quantum light emission," said Associate Professor Dong. "Our design's scalability could redefine quantum photonic devices."

The study represents a leap toward practical quantum technologies, offering a reconfigurable, room-temperature solution for wavelength tuning. Future work will focus on single-photon emitters to enhance quantum communication in real-world conditions. As Associate Professor Dong noted, "This brings us closer to adaptive, high-performance quantum networks."