Quantum Magnetometry

We develop sensors and complex measurement systems for the ultra-sensitive measurement of magnetic and magnetically transformable parameters and signals.
Superconducting quantum interference detectors (SQUIDs) are currently being developed and used as magnetic field sensors. As a future alternative the team is working on the development of integrated and miniaturized optically-pumped magnetometers (OPMs).
Sensor production is carried out in close collaboration with the micro and nanoproduction team.

The highly technical level of sensor development is reflected in the strongly application-oriented direction of the research team. Based on optimization of sensor properties, complex measurement systems are being developed for a wide range of measurement tasks and conditions.

In addition, expertise in the fields of electronics and software development is being systematically established and applied.

Different measurement applications show the exclusive properties of these sensor systems: The measurement of fetal MKG without the need for costly electromagnetic shielding represents an important tie to the life sciences. In geophysical exploration new natural resources of raw materials are being surveyed. Our systems are – thanks to their high measurement speeds in air-supported applications and, simultaneously, extreme sensitivity – unparalleled worldwide [see helicopter photograph], as are our automobile-powered measurement systems used in archaeological exploration.

Our extremely low-noise sensors make the interference-free readout of sensors possible for other research teams at IPHT. One example of this collaboration was demonstrated by the quantum radiometry research team in their assembly of the THz camera.