A theorized but never-before detected property of quantum matter has now been spotted in the lab, a team led by Associate Research Professor Natalia Drichko reports.

The study findings, published online in the journal Science, show that a particular quantum material first synthesized 20 years ago, called k-(BEDT-TTF)2Hg(SCN)2 Br, behaves like a metal but is derived from organic compounds. The material can demonstrate electrical dipole fluctuations—irregular oscillations of tiny charged poles on the material—even in extremely cold conditions, in the neighborhood of minus 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

Read more in The Hub.