Complex Three-Dimensional Microscale Structures for Quantum Sensing Applications

Abstract

We present a novel method for fabricating highly customizable three-dimensional structures hosting quantum sensors based on nitrogen vacancy (NV) centers using two-photon polymerization. This approach overcomes challenges associated with structuring traditional single-crystal quantum sensing platforms and enables the creation of complex, fully three-dimensional, sensor assemblies with submicroscale resolutions (down to 400 nm) and large fields of view (>1 mm). By embedding NV centercontaining nanoparticles in exemplary structures, we demonstrate high sensitivity optical sensing of temperature and magnetic fields at the microscale. Our work showcases the potential for integrating quantum sensors with advanced manufacturing techniques, facilitating the incorporation of sensors into existing microfluidic and electronic platforms, and opening new avenues for widespread utilization of quantum sensors in various applications.

Nanodiamond-Polymer Composites for Decreased Laser Ablation Thresholds

“…24 Combining the sensory potential of NDs with an effective structuring of ND composites could be of particular interest for sensory applications. 25,26 For example, surfacestructured ND composites could be tested for scanning NV magnetometry where tip-like diamond structures are applied. 27 NDs are considered to be biocompatible, which is an important parameter regarding the release of the particles to the environment during the fabrication, the machining (the ablation), and the application due to material abrasion.…”

Three-Dimensional Optical Imaging of Internal Deformations in Polymeric Microscale Mechanical Metamaterials

“…However, as these developments proceed, new diagnostic tools and imaging techniques become necessary to provide advanced in situ diagnostics and to better quantify the detailed behavior and performance of these materials. In this context, for instance, microscale metamaterial structures have been functionalized with nanodiamonds containing NV – centers to provide fine temperature and magnetic field measurement capabilities inside of these structures . Likewise, the functionalization of structures has been explored with other particles such as quantum dots and gold nanoparticles which can impart sensing capabilities .…”

“…In this context, for instance, microscale metamaterial structures have been functionalized with nanodiamonds containing NV − centers to provide fine temperature and magnetic field measurement capabilities inside of these structures. 23 Likewise, the functionalization of structures has been explored with other particles such as quantum dots and gold nanoparticles which can impart sensing capabilities. 24 In terms of imaging, existing methods like scanning electron microscopy (SEM) or helium ion microscopy (HIM) provide detailed surface images that can adequately resolve the nanoscale features of these materials.…”

“…Details on this setup are discussed elsewhere in literature. 23 SEM images of these structures are shown in Figure 2. Details about the resin materials and fabrication setup are provided in the Materials and Methods section.…”

“…We fabricate several copies of an 80 μm × 80 μm × 80 μm version of the same lattice design presented in Figure by using a customized TPP setup. Details on this setup are discussed elsewhere in literature . SEM images of these structures are shown in Figure .…”