Engineers at the University of Pennsylvania have achieved a significant advancement in quantum sensing by developing a technique that detects nuclear signals from individual atoms. This breakthrough enhances nuclear quadrupolar resonance (NQR) spectroscopy, a method traditionally used to analyze materials and detect explosives. By leveraging the unique properties of nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamonds—defects that can be manipulated to detect magnetic fields at the atomic level—the researchers have increased the sensitivity of NQR spectroscopy to unprecedented levels. This innovation allows for the isolation of individual nuclei, revealing subtle differences in molecular structures that were previously undetectable. As Lee Bassett, Associate Professor in Electrical and Systems Engineering at Penn, notes, focusing on a single nucleus enables the uncovering of details about molecular structure and dynamics at an entirely new scale. quiest.seas.upenn.edu
The implications of this advancement are profound, particularly in fields like drug development and material science. Understanding molecular interactions at the atomic level is crucial for designing more effective pharmaceuticals and innovative materials. By detecting individual atomic signals, researchers can gain insights into molecular behavior and interactions that were previously hidden, leading to more precise and targeted applications. This technique also holds promise for enhancing the sensitivity of other spectroscopic methods, potentially revolutionizing various scientific disciplines. The ability to study the building blocks of the natural world at such a granular level opens up new possibilities for innovation and discovery. quiest.seas.upenn.edu
In drug development, this quantum sensing technique enables researchers to observe how individual atoms within a molecule interact, leading to the design of more effective and targeted medications.