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Updated: Dec 1, 2025

Synthesis and Characterization of Supramolecular Colloids
Published on: April 22, 2016
New states of matter with fine-tuned interactions: quantum droplets and dipolar supersolids
Fabian Böttcher1, Jan-Niklas Schmidt1, Jens Hertkorn1
1Physikalisches Institut and Center for Integrated Quantum Science and Technology, Universität Stuttgart, Pfaffenwaldring 57, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany.
Abstract:
Quantum fluctuations can stabilize Bose-Einstein condensates (BEC) against the mean-field collapse. Stabilization of the condensate has been observed in quantum degenerate Bose-Bose mixtures and dipolar BECs. The fine-tuning of the interatomic interactions can lead to the emergence of two new states of matter: liquid-like self-bound quantum droplets and supersolid crystals formed from these droplets. We review the properties of these exotic states of matter and summarize the experimental progress made using dipolar quantum gases and Bose-Bose mixtures. We conclude with an outline of important open questions that could be addressed in the future.
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