HEIndividual fellowship2024–2026

Q-LAMP · Quantum lock-in amplifier phonon detectors

Horizon Europe — Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions

Duration
2024-04-01 → 2026-03-31
EU contribution
€199,694
Participants
2
Scheme
HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF

Lines connect the coordinator with its partners.

Results in brief

Quantum lock-in amplifier phonon detectors

Phonons, the quantum excitations of atomic vibrations, are central to heat transport, superconductivity, and many quantum technologies [Phys. Rev. B, 109, 144303, (2024)]. Yet standard phonon probes such as Raman spectroscopy mainly reveal phonon frequency and intensity, while giving limited access to phase and time-domain dynamics [ACS Nano, 14, 28–117, (2019)]. This restricts the study of coherent phonon processes in quantum materials. Q-Lamp addresses this gap by developing a quantum lock-in amplifier for phonon detection. The goal is a sensor that can detect both acoustic phonons, linked to strain, and thermal phonons, linked to dissipation and heating, within one platform [Nat. Commun., 15, 4979, (2024); Nat. Photonics, 5, 222–229, (2011)]. Existing technologies usually detect only one of these channels, for example thermal phonons with transition-edge sensors or mechanical phonons with superconducting qubit-acoustic devices [Phys. Rev. Appl., 22, 024051, (2024); Phys. Rev. B, 97, 205443, (2018)]. The project uses suspended two-dimensional NbSe2 as the active material. In this system, strain can tune superconductivity through changes in electron-phonon coupling, while thermal effects modify vortex motion and energy loss [Nat. Commun., 12, 2314, (2021); Nano Lett., 18, 2623–2629, (2018); Phys. Rev. B, 93, 134508, (2016)]. Suspension is essential because it increases both mechanical compliance and thermal isolation. To support device design, the project combines two theoretical tools. Density functional theory with Electron-Phonon Wannier calculations links strain to electron-phonon coupling and critical temperature[Computer Physics Communications, 209, 116–133, (2016); Phys. Rev. B, 76, 165108, (2007); Computer Physics Communications, 185, 2309–2310, (2014)]. Time-dependent Ginzburg-Landau simulations linked to heat diffusion describe thermal feedback and vortex dynamics [Supercond. Sci. Technol., 31, 055007, (2018); Phys. Rev. Lett., 40, 1041–1044, (1978)]. Together, these methods guide the design of a dual-mode quantum phonon detector with relevance for sensing and dark matter searches [Phys. Rev. D, 109, 023010, (2024)].

Data: CORDIS, © European Union

Project objective

The precise measurement of phononic properties of materials is crucial for the emerging physics and next-generation technologies. With the ever-growing study of phononic many-body physics, the need for precise phonon measurement has become increasingly important. Quantum lock-in measurement techniques offer a promising avenue for future phonon detection, boasting significant advantages such as ultra-high resolution, heightened sensitivity, and the capability for concurrent measurement of amplitude, frequency, and phase.In this project, I propose innovative quantum lock-in amplifier phonon detector (Q-LAMP) for phonon detection for the first time and plan to experimentally demonstrate their effectiveness in simultaneously measuring phonon phase, frequency, and amplitude. I plan to use Q-LAMP to measure topological localized states in phononic crystals and can also be employed for detecting weak microwaves. The quantum lock-in amplifier developed in this project will pushing both phononics physics and wireless communication to new stage.This interdisciplinary training scheme is designed to enhance Ruihuan's expertise in quantum optics, fortifying his skills and helping him establish a research career in Europe. It covers component design and implementation, theoretical analysis, mathematical modelling and applications. To assist Ruihuan in attaining professional maturity and broadening his exposure to academic and industrial collaborations, he will receive training on intellectual property management, funding and proposal writing, commercialization, supervision and teaching. Secondment in academic host, with Prof. Martijn Wubs (DTU, Denmark) is arranged to pursue scientific objectives, enriching Ruihuan's learning experience, expanding his network in Europe and maximizing the impact of research and training on the EU society and industry.

Original text from CORDIS.

Participants

  • AALTO KORKEAKOULUSAATIO SR · EspooCoordinatorFinland
  • DANMARKS TEKNISKE UNIVERSITET · Kongens LyngbyDenmark

Links

Data: CORDIS, © European Union