Fast Facts
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Advancement in Quantum Sensing: Researchers at MIT have developed a technique to enhance quantum sensing using microscopic defects in diamonds, enabling increased precision in measuring electromagnetic fields and other properties.
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Control Over Dark Spins: The innovative method utilizes nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers as a probe to detect and extend control over previously unreachable "dark spins," allowing for the creation of larger systems of qubits.
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Technique Optimization: The team employs a method called spin echo double resonance (SEDOR) to effectively identify and manipulate multiple spins, potentially allowing the formation of extensive quantum registers.
- Future Potential: This breakthrough not only demonstrates the ability to connect multiple spins but also opens the door to scaling the technique for larger systems, with prospects of accessing hundreds of qubits for enhanced quantum applications.
New Technique Enhances Quantum Sensing Capabilities
Researchers at MIT and their collaborators have developed a groundbreaking technique that could significantly improve the sensitivity of quantum sensing devices. These devices use atomic-scale quantum systems to measure electromagnetic fields, rotation, acceleration, and distance with remarkable precision. As a result, this advancement could lead to innovative applications, such as advanced brain imaging and highly accurate air traffic control systems.
The team’s approach focuses on microscopic defects in diamonds to create "qubits," which serve as the building blocks of quantum devices. Specifically, they leverage a defect known as a nitrogen-vacancy (NV) center. Scientists can identify and control these NV centers using laser light and microwave pulses. However, the researchers have now found a way to extend control to additional defects, referred to as dark spins, which are not visible to lasers.
To accomplish this, the researchers developed a method that links these dark spins in a chain, starting from the central NV spin. This allows them to control larger networks of qubits, enhancing the capability of quantum sensors. Alex Ungar, a PhD student at MIT, noted the importance of taking risks and exploring the unknown in their research process.
Diamond defects play a crucial role in the creation of NV centers. When nitrogen is implanted into a diamond, it generates various atomic defects surrounding the NV center. Some of these defects can host electronic spins, which interact with external magnetic fields, leading to the formation of qubits. By manipulating these spins, researchers can develop a larger collection of qubits, known as a quantum register, which enhances sensor performance.
The new technique employs a series of microwave pulses to identify and control these spins. This method allows the researchers to extend their reach beyond the limits of the NV center, opening doors to identifying new defects that could serve as qubits. Though they initially demonstrated control over a three-spin chain, the researchers believe that they can expand their method to accommodate more layers, potentially accessing hundreds of qubits.
The ongoing research has garnered support from the U.S. National Science Foundation and the Canada First Research Excellence Fund. Future efforts will focus on optimizing this technique, characterizing other electronic spins, and exploring different defects to form new qubits.
This promising advancement not only paves the way for more sensitive quantum sensors but also signifies a major step forward in quantum technology development.
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https://news.mit.edu/2024/technique-could-improve-sensitivity-quantum-sensing-devices-0208
