DOE’s Argonne Lab gets $1M to link quantum sensors to particle physics

Tiny defects within diamond crystals are at the heart of a new $1 million project at Argonne National Laboratory, linking quantum sensors to the exacting demands of particle physics research. The three-year effort will develop sensors based on nitrogen-vacancy, or NV, centers, created when a nitrogen atom replaces a carbon atom in a diamond, to map electromagnetic fields with greater accuracy.

“Five or 10 years ago, this was kind of science fiction,” said Argonne scientist Nazar Delegan, “But now we think that these are practical paths to making the devices useful for other scientists and ourselves.” Researchers aim to integrate these sensors into future accelerators, improving the precision of high energy physics experiments.

Diamond Sensors for Particle Physics Experiments

A $1 million investment will fund a three-year project at Argonne National Laboratory focused on integrating quantum sensors into particle physics experiments, promising improved accuracy in mapping electromagnetic fields. The effort centers on nitrogen-vacancy, or NV, centers, tiny defects within diamond materials that behave as sensitive magnetic field detectors, adapting technology initially developed for quantum information science to the demands of high energy physics.

Argonne physicist and project lead Peter Winter explains that these NV centers function by exhibiting distinct energy states that shift in response to electromagnetic fields; researchers utilize light and microwaves to read these states, enabling extraordinarily sensitive measurements. The project aims to create sensors that can integrate with the next generation of particle accelerators, addressing a critical need for precise electromagnetic field mapping in these complex experiments.

Many experiments rely on magnetic fields for various purposes and often have strict requirements for mapping these fields with high precision, as Winter notes. This is particularly important as scientists strive to reduce uncertainties and improve the precision of their measurements.

Argonne scientist Nazar Delegan highlights the technological leap forward, stating, “What’s ideal here is that we’ve developed this technologically integratable platform where for the first time we can actually put in these quantum sensors into existing microelectronic systems.” This integrability is crucial, as different high energy physics experiments present unique challenges; some operate in intense radiation, others require exceptionally precise measurements, and still others are constrained by limited space. The research team will build prototypes of ultrahigh-precision NV quantum sensors and large-area magnetic-field mapping systems, tailoring the diamond materials to the specific needs of these diverse experiments.

The project’s scope extends beyond sensor development, encompassing testing in both laboratory and operational environments, including those with high magnetic fields and intense radiation. Researchers also plan to create sensor arrays designed for rapidly changing electromagnetic environments, demonstrating a commitment to versatility.

Delegan emphasizes the broader impact of this work, noting, “One of the things I’m excited about is bringing on board a junior scientist who will adopt both fields and start to act almost like an ambassador for the two, and seeing that development is obviously rewarding.” This initiative represents a convergence of quantum information science and particle physics, fields that have historically progressed independently. Ultimately, the project seeks to create a versatile technology applicable to a wide range of experiments, pushing the boundaries of our understanding of the universe.