Cavity-altered superconductivity

Nature

by Itai Keren

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Scientists have demonstrated a groundbreaking approach to altering the ground-state properties of materials by engineering their electromagnetic environments, specifically in the context of superconductivity. By interfacing hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) with the molecular superconductor κ-(BEDT-TTF)2Cu[N(CN)2]Br (κ-ET), researchers created a resonant electromagnetic environment that suppresses superfluid density near the interface, as shown by magnetic force microscopy (MFM). This suppression occurs due to resonant coupling between hBN's hyperbolic modes and κ-ET's C=C stretching mode, which plays a key role in its superconductivity. The study highlights the potential of "dark cavities" — structures devoid of external photons — for controlling electronic properties of quantum materials. The research builds on theoretical predictions and experimental advances in cavity-controlled systems, where manipulating electromagnetic environments can induce phase transitions or new quantum states. Unlike traditional methods that rely on optical excitation, this platform uses hyperbolic van der Waals (vdW) compounds like hBN to create a resonant environment with enhanced photonic density of states and mode confinement. This approach avoids the need for external photons, offering a novel pathway for tuning material properties at their fundamental level. The findings are significant because they demonstrate a new way to engineer superconductivity by modifying the electromagnetic environment rather than altering the material itself. Such cavity-altered materials could open doors for controlling complex quantum systems with unprecedented precision. The work also underscores the importance of understanding how resonant coupling between photonic modes

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Originally published on Nature on 2/26/2026