In a groundbreaking development, a team of researchers from various institutions, including the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research, the University of Stuttgart, and the National Institute for Materials Science in Japan, has demonstrated a novel hybrid molecular-2D architecture that could revolutionize quantum sensing in the energy sector. Their work, published in the journal Nature Nanotechnology, introduces a new way to create quantum spin sensors directly on material surfaces, which could have significant implications for energy applications.
The team, led by Xuankai Zhou and Jörg Wrachtrup, anchored spin-active molecules onto hexagonal boron nitride (hBN), a two-dimensional material known for its excellent thermal and chemical stability. This approach eliminates the depth constraint of traditional quantum sensors, allowing for more precise and sensitive measurements. The researchers found that the spin properties of the molecules remained robust from cryogenic temperatures (4 Kelvin) up to room temperature, a critical factor for practical applications.
One of the most striking findings was the Hahn-echo spin coherence time, which exceeded 3.4 microseconds at 4 Kelvin. This is a significant improvement over values observed in bulk organic crystals and defies the conventional expectation that spin coherence deteriorates near surfaces. By chemically tuning the molecules through deuteration, the team further improved the coherence time by more than tenfold. Under dynamic decoupling, the coherence was prolonged to the intrinsic lifetime limit, exceeding 300 microseconds.
The practical applications of this research for the energy sector are substantial. Quantum sensors with long coherence times and optical addressability can be used for detecting proximal proton spins and the magnetic response of two-dimensional magnets. This could lead to advancements in energy storage, magnetic resonance imaging, and other technologies that rely on precise magnetic field measurements. The versatility and scalability of this hybrid molecular-2D architecture offer a promising platform for developing next-generation quantum sensors tailored to the needs of the energy industry.
In summary, this research represents a significant step forward in quantum sensing technology. By overcoming the depth constraint and demonstrating robust spin properties at room temperature, the team has opened up new possibilities for energy applications. The ability to chemically tune the molecules and achieve long coherence times further enhances the potential of this technology, making it a valuable tool for the energy sector.
Source: Nature Nanotechnology
This article is based on research available at arXiv.