Researchers at Fraunhofer IAF have successfully demonstrated a novel approach to precise magnetic field measurements, known as Laser Threshold Magnetometry (LTM). This innovative technology enables the measurement of tiny magnetic fields, such as those generated by brain waves, with unprecedented accuracy. Led by Dr. Jan Jeske, the team has combined an NV diamond and a laser diode in an optical resonator, achieving the first successful demonstration of a dual-media NV diamond laser system.
This breakthrough has significant implications for medical diagnostics and treatment, particularly in the field of biomagnetic signal measurement. The LTM approach allows for measurements with a high dynamic range without the need to suppress background fields, making it ideal for applications such as measuring brain activity or heart signals.
The research team’s achievement builds upon their previous work on NV diamond-based quantum sensors, which have already shown great promise in precise magnetic field measurements at room temperature. The current results, published in Science Advances, represent a significant milestone in the development of LTM and pave the way for further advancements in this field.
Measuring Tiny Magnetic Fields with Laser Threshold Magnetometry
Measuring tiny magnetic fields, such as those generated by brain waves, enables many new novel opportunities for medical diagnostics and treatment. Researchers at Fraunhofer IAF have made significant progress in this area through the development of Laser Threshold Magnetometry (LTM), a globally innovative approach to precise magnetic field measurements.
Quantum sensors based on nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond are already widely used for precise magnetic field measurements at room temperature and in background magnetic fields. LTM is a novel research approach that measures extremely low magnetic fields in the femtotesla (fT) to picotesla (pT) range, allowing measurements with a high dynamic range without the need to suppress background fields. These features make laser threshold magnetometry particularly useful for medical applications, such as measuring biomagnetic signals from the brain or heart.
The scientific principle of LTM has already been extensively studied in theory. Researchers at Fraunhofer IAF have been working on the realization of the first laser threshold magnetometer. The basic concept is to develop a laser from NV centers and use the laser light, which reacts to magnetic fields, to obtain precise information about the strength and direction of a magnetic field. The laser threshold is the point at which the laser starts or stops emitting light. As magnetic fields near the laser threshold have a very strong effect on the signal, they can be measured very precisely at this point.
First Demonstration of Dual-Media NV Diamond Laser System
In a significant breakthrough, researchers at Fraunhofer IAF have successfully demonstrated the first dual-media NV diamond laser system. By combining an NV diamond with a second laser medium, a laser diode for additional light amplification, in an optical resonator, they were able to demonstrate the laser threshold for the first time. Depending on how strongly the NV centers were pumped, the laser system switched on or off.
This achievement is a significant step forward in the development of LTM. The researchers believe that sensors with up to 100 percent contrast, strong light signals, and a wide range of measurable magnetic field strengths can be realized in the future based on this technology.
The NeuroQ Project: Developing High-Precision Quantum Sensors for Medical Applications
The work is part of the BMBF-funded research project NeuroQ, which aims to develop high-precision quantum sensors for medical applications. The NeuroQ consortium, consisting of Fraunhofer IAF, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, University of Stuttgart, and other industrial partners, is working on developing innovative NV diamond laser systems that can measure neuronal activity and transmit the signals to an exoskeleton via a brain-computer interface.
This technology has the potential to enable paralyzed people to control an exoskeleton with their thoughts and thus regain some of their mobility. The NeuroQ project team is currently working on further developing the innovative NV diamond laser system, which is currently in the patent application process, and increasing its sensitivity.
Future Prospects for Laser Threshold Magnetometry
The successful demonstration of the dual-media NV diamond laser system marks a significant milestone in the development of LTM. As researchers continue to work on improving the technology, it is likely that we will see significant advancements in the field of medical diagnostics and treatment.
With the potential to measure tiny magnetic fields with high precision, LTM could enable new possibilities for non-invasive medical imaging and diagnostics. Additionally, the development of brain-computer interfaces could revolutionize the way we interact with machines, enabling people with paralysis or other motor disorders to regain control over their bodies.
As researchers continue to push the boundaries of what is possible with LTM, it is clear that this technology has the potential to make a significant impact on our understanding of the human body and our ability to treat medical conditions.
External Link: Click Here For More
