Organically Made Quantum Spin Liquids

The spin-1/2 atoms in a so-called quantum spin liquid form a liquid-like magnetic state in which spins never order as a unit. The phase has been linked to certain forms of superconductivity and might be useful for quantum computing. But quantum spin liquids have been observed in only a handful of materials. Theorists at the University of Tokyo suggest looking for them in a new kind of system: crystals known as metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), in which spin-bearing metal ions are linked by organic molecules.