Researchers Reveal Magnetism With Quantum Potential

Tantalum-tungsten-selenium crystal self-organizes into stable atomic clusters that trigger magnetism at low temperatures.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Researchers at the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory have discovered that a specially engineered tantalum–tungsten–selenium crystal self-organizes into stable atomic clusters that trigger magnetism at low temperatures, revealing new potential for spin-based electronics and quantum materials.

Why it matters

This discovery of how atomic self-organization can unlock unique magnetic properties is essential for future technologies such as quantum computing and spin-based electronics, which could enable faster and more energy-efficient operations compared to conventional electronics.

The details

Atomic-scale analysis at ORNL's Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences showed that tantalum atoms form unusual triangular clusters of 10 atoms rather than dispersing randomly, minimizing energy and enhancing structural stability. When cooled below 50 kelvin, strain at the corners of these clusters initiates a magnetic transition, linking atomic self-organization to emergent magnetic behavior.

  • The crystal was cooled to below 50 kelvin (about minus 223 degrees Celsius) to trigger the magnetic transition.

The players

Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory

A U.S. Department of Energy research laboratory that conducts research in various scientific fields, including materials science and quantum computing.

Jewook Park

A researcher at ORNL's Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences who studies atomic-level engineering of materials.

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What they’re saying

“Atomic-level engineering is redefining how we tailor materials. These advances promise a future where we harness their properties with unparalleled precision.”

— Jewook Park, Researcher, Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences (thequantuminsider.com)

What’s next

The researchers plan to further investigate how the atomic self-organization and magnetic properties of this tantalum-tungsten-selenium crystal can be leveraged for future spin-based electronics and quantum computing applications.

The takeaway

This discovery demonstrates how precisely engineering the atomic structure of materials can unlock unique quantum mechanical effects, paving the way for transformative advances in computing, data storage, and other critical technologies.