To bring the forbidden into the realm of the possible

New research suggests that it may be possible to harness the power of forbidden symmetries to create new materials with unique properties

Abstract

Forbidden symmetries are symmetries that are not allowed by the laws of physics. However, a new study suggests that it may be possible to harness the power of forbidden symmetries to create new materials with unique properties. The study, which was published in the journal Nature Materials, found that it is possible to create materials with forbidden symmetries by using a technique called "topological insulators". Topological insulators are materials that are insulators in their interior but conduct electricity on their surface. The researchers found that by creating topological insulators with a specific type of forbidden symmetry, they were able to create materials with a number of unusual properties, including the ability to conduct electricity without resistance. The study's findings could lead to the development of new materials with a wide range of applications, such as in electronics, energy, and medicine.