The electron-phonon processes of the nitrogen-vacancy center in diamond

TL;DR

This paper investigates electron-phonon interactions in the nitrogen-vacancy center in diamond, revealing slower Jahn-Teller dynamics and emphasizing the importance of symmetric phonon modes, which impact quantum applications.

Contribution

It provides new insights into the electron-phonon processes and Jahn-Teller dynamics of the NV center at various temperatures, challenging previous assumptions.

Findings

Jahn-Teller dynamics are slower than previously believed

Symmetric phonon modes play a vital role in electron-phonon interactions

Results impact quantum technology applications using NV centers

Abstract

Applications of negatively charged nitrogen-vacancy center in diamond exploit the center's unique optical and spin properties, which at ambient temperature, are predominately governed by electron-phonon interactions. Here, we investigate these interactions at ambient and elevated temperatures by observing the motional narrowing of the center's excited state spin resonances. We determine that the center's Jahn-Teller dynamics are much slower than currently believed and identify the vital role of symmetric phonon modes. Our results have pronounced implications for center's diverse applications (including quantum technology) and for understanding its fundamental properties.