Scientists have achieved single-photon emission in the near-infrared (NIR) from defects in hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) nanotubes, a 2D material. This breakthrough is significant because most known quantum emitters operate in the visible spectrum, and the ability to generate single photons in the NIR is crucial for the development of quantum technologies, such as long-range quantum communication and quantum computing, due to lower light attenuation in this spectral region.

The research team demonstrated that color centers in hBN nanotubes can be optically excited to produce single photons. Most notably, they managed to tune the emission wavelength of these photons in a range of 800 to 900 nanometers, an achievement that opens new avenues for the control and integration of quantum light sources into photonic devices. This tuning was achieved through the application of external electric fields and the manipulation of mechanical strain on the nanotubes.

The ability to control quantum emission in the near-infrared, coupled with the robustness and 2D material compatibility of hBN nanotubes, positions this system as a promising candidate for future applications. Next steps include optimizing emission efficiency and exploring the integration of these emitters into more complex quantum photonic circuits, which could accelerate the development of quantum networks and advanced quantum sensors.