ACDQ_Q - Advanced Circuits for Detection and Control of Diamond Quantum Sensors

Objective

Quantum sensors using nitrogen-vacancy (NV) spin colour centres in diamond have advanced significantly from scientific curiosity to practical applications. The first devices, such as Diamond Scanning Probe Microscopes, are already on the market. However, large-scale applications remain limited by the availability of compact hardware integrated with the diamond quantum chip, as well as cost-effectiveness.

ACDC_Q addresses these challenges by developing a fully integrated system for controlling and reading out NV centres using semiconductor technology. The project builds on an initial demonstration of this integration (OEAW, Infineon). The device utilises electrical readout of NV centres, a method pioneered by IMEC and further developed by the applicants in previous EU projects.

Further development of the integrated logic in ACDC_Q will enable controlled excitation and spin manipulation. This integration will lead to a compact and cost-effective solution while achieving state-of-the-art performance comparable to devices built on an optical table.

The devices will be developed for commercial applications in magnetometry, including non-destructive evaluation (Kwant-Tek), space magnetometry (IMEC, ASI), and remote monitoring (Thales). Device performance will be calibrated at precise EU metrology facilities (PTB).

By combining pioneering academic research with semiconductor industrial processes and leading manufacturers, ACDC_Q will transform diamond sensors from laboratory experiments into prototypes designed for commercialization.