Quantum sensing and metrology

Quantum sensing and metrology, along with quantum-enhanced imaging (QMSI), leverage the unique properties of quantum states and phenomena such as entanglement and non-classical correlations across various physical platforms. These platforms include condensed matter, single photons, NV-centers, cold atoms, ions, and single electrons. QMSI devices offer significant improvements in the accuracy and precision of measurements across a wide array of systems. They overcome the limitations of traditional classical measurement techniques, addressing challenges such as environment-induced noise from vacuum fluctuations (shot noise), dynamically induced noise in position measurements (the standard quantum limit), and the diffraction limit [1].

QMSI technologies range from fundamental research applications to practical uses in industry, impacting fields such as physics, chemistry, biology, medicine, materials science, and quantum information, computation, and communication. The atomic-scale precision and coherence properties of quantum sensors provide unmatched spatial resolution and sensitivity.

How does quantum sensing work?

Quantum sensing operates by leveraging the unique properties of quantum mechanics to achieve measurements with unprecedented precision and sensitivity. Unlike classical sensors that rely on large collections of atoms, quantum sensors extract information from individual atoms or particles. These sensors exploit quantum phenomena such as entanglement, superposition, discrete states, and coherence to detect minute changes in physical quantities.
Quantum resources enable quantum sensors to overcome the physical constraints that limit traditional sensors, allowing for exceptional accuracy and reliability even in the presence of electromagnetic interference. By utilizing quantum bits, or qubits, which can be photons, ions, or neutral atoms, quantum sensors can detect subtle changes in environmental factors like rotation, pressure, gravity, and magnetic or electric fields. This makes quantum sensors immensely powerful tools for a wide range of applications, offering sensitivity beyond the limits of classical measurement techniques.
Quantum sensing can involve trapping atoms and ions in a vacuum chamber and cooling them to extremely low temperatures. Lasers are then used to manipulate these particles and measure their physical properties while precisely controlling their internal states. For example, by examining fluorescence patterns of atoms and ions, it is possible to determine the field’s strength and direction. Another method employs the properties of individual photons to measure physical quantities. For instance, to measure temperature with high precision, a laser beam is directed at a sample, and the scattered light’s intensity and wavelength are analyzed, enabling highly accurate temperature assessments.

What are the most used quantum sensors?

Quantum sensors represent a groundbreaking advancement in measurement technology, exploiting the principles of quantum mechanics to achieve exceptional precision and sensitivity. These sensors operate on the quantum scale, harnessing the unique behaviors of atoms, ions, and photons to perform measurements that far surpass the capabilities of traditional sensors. The diverse range of quantum sensors includes devices tailored for various applications, each leveraging distinct quantum properties to deliver highly accurate results. From timekeeping and magnetic field detection to temperature measurement and high-resolution imaging, quantum sensors are revolutionizing numerous fields by providing unparalleled measurement capabilities. The following sections explore the different types of quantum sensors and their specific applications.

Atomic clocks

Atomic clocks are a prime example of quantum sensors, using the stable oscillations of atoms such as cesium or rubidium to measure time with extraordinary accuracy. These clocks are critical for applications like GPS navigation and scientific research, where precise timekeeping is essential [3, 10].

Magnetometers

Magnetometers utilize the properties of atoms or ions to measure magnetic fields. These sensors are highly beneficial in areas such as geology, medical diagnostics, and materials science, providing detailed insights into magnetic field variations [2, 4].

Gravitometers

Gravitometers, another type of quantum sensor, measure gravitational fields with great precision. They play a vital role in geophysics and navigation, offering detailed measurements that are crucial for understanding gravitational anomalies and for precise positioning [5].

Interferometers

Interferometers use the interference patterns of photons to measure length or distance with extreme accuracy. These sensors are indispensable in metrology, microscopy, and precision engineering, where precise measurements are paramount [6].

Quantum thermometers

Quantum thermometers achieve high precision in temperature measurement by using atoms or ions. These sensors are particularly useful in materials science, medical diagnostics, and food safety, where accurate temperature readings are crucial [7].

Chemical sensors

Chemical sensors leverage quantum properties to detect specific chemicals with high sensitivity and specificity. They are invaluable in environmental monitoring, medical diagnostics, and food safety, providing precise chemical detection and analysis [8].

Imaging sensors

Imaging sensors utilize the properties of photons or atoms to produce high-resolution images. These sensors advance fields such as medical imaging, materials science, and surveillance by providing detailed visual information that traditional imaging technologies cannot match [9].
Through these various types of quantum sensors, we see the transformative impact of quantum mechanics on measurement technologies, driving forward scientific research and practical applications with unprecedented accuracy and reliability.

At HÜBNER Photonics we supply high performance lasers for many areas of quantum research.

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