EPFL develops acoustic metamaterial for studying quantum atoms

At EPFL, researchers have created a new acoustic metamaterial to study densely packed atoms. This innovative material allows scientists to explore properties of condensed matter while overcoming challenges typical in quantum physics. Ph.D. student Mathieu Padlewski leads the project, working alongside Hervé Lissek and Romain Fleury. The acoustic system can be adjusted to examine various physical systems and phenomena. It consists of active elements that can manipulate sound waves, which may have future applications in telecommunications and energy harvesting. The project draws inspiration from quantum mechanics, particularly the Schrödinger's cat thought experiment. In quantum physics, measuring a system can force it into a specific state, disrupting its natural superposition of possibilities. However, the researchers found that sound waves can be used to model these quantum concepts without this disruption. The metamaterial features a line of small cubes, acting as "acoustic atoms," connected to speakers and microphones. This setup allows for controlled sound wave propagation and feedback measurement. Its design is similar to the cochlea, the part of the ear that helps with hearing. Looking ahead, Padlewski aims to use this technology to develop an acoustic analog computer. This machine would function like a quantum computer but would be more stable, as it uses sound waves instead of fragile quantum states. The approach could revolutionize how information is processed in complex systems.