Light reads electron spins in porous crystals for quantum sensors
Researchers from the University of Glasgow, University of Tokyo, and other institutions have achieved a major breakthrough in quantum technology. For the first time, the team successfully used light to read out the magnetic spin of electrons trapped within porous crystalline materials. This advancement centers on metal-organic frameworks, known as MOFs, which are highly porous structures capable of capturing and holding molecules or electrons. By developing a method to optically detect electron spins inside these cages, scientists have paved the way for highly sensitive quantum chemical sensors. Such sensors could revolutionize how we detect trace chemical substances and monitor environmental factors. The collaborative research bridges quantum physics and materials science, promising robust applications in industry and research.