Researchers at the University of Michigan have made a groundbreaking discovery in quantum physics that challenges existing theories about material behavior. On November 9, 2025, a team led by physicist Lu Li reported findings that show quantum oscillations occurring within an insulating material, suggesting that these phenomena originate from the material’s bulk rather than its surface.
This research, conducted at the National Magnetic Field Laboratory, indicates a potential “new duality” in materials science. The implications could redefine our understanding of how certain compounds function, allowing them to exhibit characteristics of both metals and insulators. This discovery may pave the way for innovative advancements in various technologies, although the immediate practical applications remain unclear.
Understanding Quantum Oscillations
The study, funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation and the U.S. Department of Energy, focused on a phenomenon known as quantum oscillations. In typical metal materials, these oscillations occur when electrons behave like tiny springs, reacting to magnetic influences. By manipulating the strength of a magnetic field, scientists can observe changes in the behavior of these “electron springs.” Recently, researchers identified similar oscillations within insulators—materials that are not expected to conduct electricity or heat.
Li and his collaborators sought to determine whether these oscillations originated from the surface or the bulk of the insulating materials. If the oscillations were found to be surface phenomena, it would have significant implications for the development of new electronic devices, particularly those based on topological insulators, which allow electricity to flow on their surfaces while remaining insulating internally.
Clear Evidence from Collaborative Research
Working with an international team from six institutions in the United States and Japan, the researchers conducted experiments at the National Magnetic Field Laboratory. Their findings provided clear evidence that the quantum oscillations stem from the bulk of the material, not just its surface. Kuan-Wen Chen, a research fellow involved in the study, emphasized the importance of this discovery. “For years, scientists have pursued the answer to a fundamental question about the carrier origin in this exotic insulator: Is it from the bulk or the surface, intrinsic or extrinsic?” he stated. “We are excited to provide clear evidence that it is bulk and intrinsic.”
The research utilized a compound known as ytterbium boride (YbB12) in an extraordinarily powerful magnetic field, reaching up to 35 Tesla, which is approximately 35 times stronger than the magnetic field inside a typical hospital MRI machine. This extreme environment allowed the team to observe the material’s unusual properties.
Li referred to this finding as indicative of a “new duality” in physics. He compared it to the historical duality discovered over a century ago when it was revealed that light and matter could behave both as waves and particles. The new duality suggests that some materials can function as both conductors and insulators, fundamentally altering our understanding of material science.
While the “metal-like” behavior observed in this research only manifests under extreme magnetic conditions, it raises essential questions about the underlying mechanisms at play. Li noted, “Effectively, we’re showing that this naive picture where we envisioned a surface with good conduction that’s feasible to use in electronics is completely wrong. It’s the whole compound that behaves like a metal even though it’s an insulator.”
The implications of this work extend beyond immediate applications. Graduate student Yuan Zhu expressed optimism about future research directions: “Confirming that the oscillations are bulk and intrinsic is exciting. We don’t yet know what kind of neutral particles are responsible for the observation. We hope our findings motivate further experiments and theoretical work.”
This study has garnered additional support from the Institute for Complex Adaptive Matter, the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, and the Japan Science and Technology Agency. As the researchers continue to unravel the complexities of these quantum oscillations, the potential for revolutionary advancements in materials science remains an exciting frontier.
