Subnanotesla quantum-interference magnetometry with a single spin in diamond

TL;DR

This paper introduces a highly sensitive quantum magnetometry method using nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamond, achieving improved stability and sensitivity, especially in isotopically purified samples, with applications in sensing and quantum information.

Contribution

The paper presents a novel magnetometry technique based on coherent two-photon transitions in NV centers, significantly enhancing sensitivity and stability over previous methods.

Findings

Enhanced magnetic field sensitivity in isotopically purified diamond

Long-term measurement stability is significantly improved

Reduced detection limits for static and periodic magnetic fields

Abstract

We demonstrate a magnetometry technique using nitrogen-vacancy centres in diamond which makes use of coherent two-photon transitions. We find that the sensitivity to magnetic fields can be significantly improved in isotopically purified diamond. Furthermore, the long-term stability of magnetic field measurements is significantly enhanced, thereby reducing the minimum detectable long-term field variations for both quasi-static and periodic fields. The method is useful both for sensing applications and as a spin qubit manipulation technique.