Umbrella for atoms: The first protective layer for 2D quantum materials

https://phys.org/news/2024-03-umbrella-atoms-layer-2d-quantum.html

"indium atom topological insulators (from quantum indenene) conduct electricity virtually without resistance along their edges... heating silicon carbide causes carbon atoms detach from surface and form graphene, then vapor-deposit indium atoms between protective graphene layer and silicon carbide substrate... van der Waals mechanism protects atomic indenene layer from air or other chemicals without compromising quantum properties, but graphene's conductivity risks short circuits... working to overcome this challenge"