Researchers at McGill University have developed a novel device that generates sound-like particles known as phonons at extremely cold temperatures. The technology could be used to create phonon lasers, with possible applications in communications and medical diagnostics.

“Modern communication is largely based on light, including electromagnetic waves and electrical currents. In a medium such as oceans, sound can travel, whereas light and electrical currents cannot,” said Michael Hilke. “In the human body, sound waves can also be a useful tool.”

Hilke is Associate Professor of Physics and co-author of the study published in Physical Review Letters. The device was built and analyzed at McGill and the National Research Council of Canada. The material was synthesized at Princeton University.