Researchers from the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) have recently achieved a significant breakthrough in the exploration of exotic spin interactions. Led by Academician DU Jiangfeng, the team utilized solid-state spin quantum sensors based on nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond to investigate these interactions at the microscale. This groundbreaking research has been published in National Science Review, Physical Review Letters, and Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), respectively.
The team’s research findings offer valuable insights and experimental constraints on exotic spin interactions induced by new bosons. These interactions have garnered attention due to their potential to address fundamental questions beyond the standard model. By leveraging the unique properties of diamond NV centers as quantum sensors, the researchers have been able to construct high-sensitivity detectors capable of precisely measuring various spin phenomena at sub-micrometer scales.
To enhance the capabilities of the sensors, the team pioneered the electron spin growth process of a high-quality diamond NV ensemble. This advancement transformed the single-spin detector into an ensemble spin sensor, significantly improving detection accuracy. These improved detectors provided unprecedented opportunities for experimental searches for exotic spin interactions.
In addition to the advancements in detection accuracy, the researchers harnessed the advantages of single NV centers as atomic-scale sensors. They combined this technology with microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) and silicon-based nanofabrication to create a scalable spin-mechanical quantum chip. This innovative chip allowed for observation constraints at distances smaller than 100 nanometers, improving the accuracy of measurements by two orders of magnitude.
Beyond the Standard Model
The team’s achievements highlight the unique advantages of using solid-state spin quantum sensors for studying physics beyond the standard model. These findings have the potential to inspire widespread interest and advancements in fundamental sciences such as cosmology, astrophysics, and high-energy physics. The ability to precisely measure and explore exotic spin interactions opens up new avenues for understanding the fundamental laws that govern our universe.
Through the use of solid-state spin quantum sensors based on nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamond, the researchers at USTC have made a significant breakthrough in exploring exotic spin interactions. Their innovative approaches and advancements in detection accuracy have paved the way for more precise measurements at the microscale. These findings offer valuable insights and experimental constraints on exotic spin interactions, providing opportunities to address fundamental questions beyond the standard model. With the potential to impact multiple fields of science, this research has opened up new possibilities for understanding the intricacies of our universe.
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