Time-keeping with electron spin states in diamond

TL;DR

This paper introduces a solid-state frequency standard using nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamond, offering comparable stability to atomic clocks and potential for chip-scale integration.

Contribution

The work demonstrates a new solid-state spin-based frequency standard with stability comparable to atomic standards, suitable for miniaturization.

Findings

Achieved an Allan deviation of 1E-12 with current methods.

Projected stability exceeding 1E-14 with improvements.

Compatible with chip-scale device integration.

Abstract

Frequency standards based on atomic states, such as Rb or Cs vapors, or single trapped ions, are the most precise measures of time. Here we introduce a complementary device based on spins in a solid-state system - the nitrogen-vacancy defect in single crystal diamond. We show that this system has comparable stability to portable atomic standards and is readily incorporable as a chip-scale device. Using a pulsed spin-echo technique, we anticipate an Allan deviation of {\sigma}_y =1E-12 ({\tau})^(-1/2) with current photoluminescence detection methods and posit exceeding 1E-14 with improved diamond material processing and nanophotonic engineering.