High performance quantum sensor system with diamond NV centers for scalable applications

Yuta Shigenobu, Yuji Hatano, Shibata, Takayuki +2 more

佑太 重信, Yuta Shigenobu, 雄治 波多野 +8 more

睦子 波多野, Mutsuko Hatano

Yuji Hatano, Shibata, Takayuki, Naota Sekiguchi +4 more

Mutsuko Hatano

Quantum sensors encompass a diverse class of devices that exploit quantum coherence to detect weak or nanoscale signals. As their behavior is tied to physical constants, quantum sensors can achieve accuracy, repeatability, and precision approaching fundamental limits [1, 2]. As a result, these sensors have shown utility in a wide range of applications in both science and engineering leading to innovations. Among many solid-state spin systems, nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamonds have attracted considerable attention as a leading platform in many fields of quantum technologies, from quantum sensing to information processing and communication applications. They have superior physical properties, and their quantum coherence is preserved even at room temperature. The energy levels of NV centers are sensitive to magnetic fields, electric fields, strain, and temperature, and the spatial resolution is scalable from nanometers to millimeters. Therefore, diamond quantum sensors are distinctive sensors with multimodality and span scalable application fields. To realize an ideal quantum sensor for applications, the technical challenges in the sensor materials and the quantum control techniques, such as coherent microwave spin manipulation, effective optical spin-state initialization, and readout, have been developed. This chapter briefly explains the sensing principle using NV centers and then introduces sensor systems for biomedical applications, and monitoring of batteries for electric vehicles and internal power devices.

Michal Kern, Khubaib Khan, Philipp Hengel +1 more

This monograph presents the emerging field of second-generation quantum sensing, which leverages phenomena such as superposition and entanglement, thereby offering measurement sensitivities far surpassing classical methods. In our discussion, we emphasize its potential to revolutionize various scientific and technological domains. Starting with a foundational overview of quantum sensors, distinguishing them from quantum computing and communication technologies, we then highlight the relative maturity of quantum sensing, especially in room-temperature operations, which positions it closest to market adoption. The main part of the monograph is dedicated to solid-state defects, particularly nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond, which have emerged as promising candidates for scalable quantum sensors. The unique optical and spin properties of NV centers are explored in detail, emphasizing their possible applications in fields such as biomedical imaging, materials science, and semiconductor inspection. We delve into the technical aspects of integrating NV centers with conventional electronic and photonic systems, discussing the challenges and innovations in electronic interface circuits, photonic integration, and system-level integration technologies. Additionally, we examine gas-based quantum sensors, particularly those utilizing Rydberg atoms, which offer high precision due to their long coherence times. The challenges of integrating gas-based sensors, compared to their solid-state counterparts, are also briefly discussed. Overall, the monograph underscores the potential of second-generation quantum sensors, particularly those based on NV centers, to be the first scalable, high-volume quantum devices on the market, with applications spanning various fields due to their high sensitivity and room-temperature operation.