Scanning Quantum Decoherence Microscopy

TL;DR

This paper proposes a novel scanning quantum decoherence microscopy technique that uses a two-state quantum system to simultaneously map Hamiltonian and decoherence properties, enabling nanoscale imaging of electromagnetic fields.

Contribution

It introduces a generalization of qubit-based magnetometry to probe decoherence effects and electromagnetic environments at the nanoscale, combining Hamiltonian and decoherence mapping.

Findings

Theoretical demonstration of the technique's ability to image magnetic and electric fields.

Identification of applications in condensed matter physics and biophysics.

Components for device realization have been experimentally demonstrated.

Abstract

The use of qubits as sensitive magnetometers has been studied theoretically and recent demonstrated experimentally. In this paper we propose a generalisation of this concept, where a scanning two-state quantum system is used to probe the subtle effects of decoherence (as well as its surrounding electromagnetic environment). Mapping both the Hamiltonian and decoherence properties of a qubit simultaneously, provides a unique image of the magnetic (or electric) field properties at the nanoscale. The resulting images are sensitive to the temporal as well as spatial variation in the fields created by the sample. As an example we theoretically study two applications of this technology; one from condensed matter physics, the other biophysics. The individual components required to realise the simplest version of this device (characterisation and measurement of qubits, nanoscale positioning) have already been demonstrated experimentally.