Searches for exotic spin-dependent interactions with spin sensors

TL;DR

This paper reviews how advanced spin sensors like magnetometers and NV centers are used to search for exotic spin-dependent interactions predicted by theories beyond the Standard Model, highlighting recent progress and future prospects.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of the physical principles, recent theoretical and experimental advances, and ongoing experiments in using spin sensors to detect exotic spin-dependent interactions.

Findings

Recent experimental limits on exotic spin-dependent forces

Detection of signals consistent with ultralight dark matter interactions

Advancements in sensor sensitivity and measurement techniques

Abstract

Numerous theories have postulated the existence of exotic spin-dependent interactions beyond the Standard Model of particle physics. Spin-based quantum sensors, which utilize the quantum properties of spins to enhance measurement precision, emerge as powerful tools for probing these exotic interactions. These sensors encompass a wide range of technologies, such as optically pumped magnetometers, atomic comagnetometers, spin masers, nuclear magnetic resonance, spin amplifiers, and nitrogen-vacancy centers. These technologies stand out for their ultrahigh sensitivity, compact tabletop design, and cost-effectiveness, offering complementary approaches to the large-scale particle colliders and astrophysical observations. This article reviews the underlying physical principles of various spin sensors and highlights the recent theoretical and experimental progress in the searches for exotic spin-dependent interactions with these quantum sensors. Investigations covered include the exotic interactions of spins with ultralight dark matter, exotic spin-dependent forces, electric dipole moment, spin-gravity interactions, and among others. Ongoing and forthcoming experiments using advanced spin-based sensors to investigate exotic spin-dependent interactions are discussed.