Advancing Quantum Innovation Using Neutron Beams

The research community that leveraged neutron beams to revolutionize computer hard drives is now paving the way for future quantum innovations.

Fundamental studies on magnetic materials using neutron beams led to significant scientific discoveries that supported computer hard drive technology from the late 1990s until the advent of solid-state drives. This research has generated an estimated $800 million economic impact in Canada alone (https://neutrons.ca/hard-drives/).

The same research community that made these groundbreaking discoveries has also frequently used neutron beams to explore quantum materials, a class of materials with the potential to revolutionize information technology. Similar to the magnetic materials foundational to hard drives, the technology-critical properties of quantum materials often depend on magnetism. Understanding these properties heavily relies on the unique sensitivity of neutrons to magnetism.

Quantum computers, superconducting electronics, and spintronics could dramatically enhance the speed and capacity of information technologies—if the distinctive properties of quantum materials can be better understood and harnessed.

Recognizing the enormous potential of quantum technologies for commercialization and for transforming how we develop and design everything from life-saving drugs to next generation batteries, the Government of Canada launched a $360 million National Quantum Strategy in Budget 2021, aiming to achieve $40 billion in returns to Canada by 2045. [1]

Canada’s ability to implement this strategy is bolstered by decades of scientific expertise and foundational knowledge. For instance, Canadian research using neutron beams contributed to quantum materials discoveries honored by the 2016 Nobel Prize in Physics. Canadian scientists conducted groundbreaking experiments that confirmed the existence of a new class of quantum materials, known as topological materials. These materials are now believed to be key to major breakthroughs in quantum computing, superconducting computing, and spintronic computing.

Such discoveries in quantum materials have enhanced Canada’s scientific reputation and attracted highly talented individuals to the field of quantum technologies. For instance, a McMaster PhD alumnus of research on quantum materials with neutron beams presently leads the Quantum and Nanotechnologies Research Centre at the National Research Council.

Today, Canada is a recognized leader in quantum materials and technologies research, which is crucial for quantum innovation. Leading university research institutes include l’Institut Quantique at l’Université de Sherbrooke, l’Institut Courtois at l’Université de Montreal, the Brockhouse Institute for Materials Research at McMaster University, the Stewart Blusson Quantum Matter Institute at the University of British Columbia, the Centre for Quantum Materials at the University of Toronto, and the Institute for Quantum Computing at the University of Waterloo.

Canadian scientists continue to excel in quantum materials research, attracting talent and making invaluable contributions to the field, ensuring a fertile ground for further discoveries and advancements in quantum innovation.


[1] Doyletech Corporation. Socio-Economic Impact Assessment of Quantum Technologies in Canada (2020).

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