Quantum technology has the potential to transform global industries and markets. Large public and private investments now support worldwide research efforts in quantum computing, sensing, and communications. This envisioned quantum/nano revolution will require an unprecedented understanding of the behavior of electrons and spins in quantum devices. As such, there is an urgent need for sensitive microscopy tools that can probe individual spins and nanoampere currents with few-nanometer resolution. Magnetic imaging could provide a powerful, non-invasive approach to meet this need, but state-of-the-art techniques either lack the resolution, sensitivity, and/or temperature compatibility.
We propose to develop a prototype scanning-probe microscope that uses individual spins in diamond as quantum sensors. This ‘quantum microscope’ will enable magnetic imaging of single spins and nanoampere currents with nanoscale resolution in a temperature range from ~10 millikelvin to above room temperature. As proof-of-principle, we will apply the microscope to investigate the nanoscale homogeneity and conductivity of CVD-grown graphene and to study electron flow in quantum-Hall interferometers, which are promising devices for investigating the exotic statistics of fractional charges.
To develop this microscope we have assembled a multidisciplinary consortium that brings together key expertise in millikelvin scanning-probe microscopy, nanofabrication, quantum materials, optical engineering, and quantum sensing. By joining universities (Delft and Leiden), applied research (TNO), and industry (Leiden Spin Imaging BV and Applied Nanolayers BV), we cover the entire knowledge chain, from fundamental and applied research to prototyping and product development.
Our results will fill a critical need for academic and applied research efforts that aim to develop quantum technologies. The proposed broad temperature range and nanoscale resolution enables a wide range of experiments, including in quantum-Hall physics, graphene devices, electron liquids, magnetic molecules and magnetic vortices. Our microscope will thus provide a key enabling technology for the quantum/nano revolution.
