New quantum sensing method holds promise for improving greenhouse gas detection

Illustration of an optical frequency comb probing gas molecules. Alex Belsley

Press release issued: 4 April 2023

Quantum Engineering CDT student Alex Belsley publishes new paper in PRL, showcasing an innovative technique to detect and characterise molecules with greater precision has been proposed, paving the way for significant advances in environmental monitoring, medical diagnostics, and industrial processes.

The new quantum sensing method, put forward by Alex Belsley, builds on the work of 2005 Nobel laureates in physics John Hall and Theodor Hänsch who developed a frequency comb technique to accurately measure optical frequencies. Frequency combs are deployed in many areas of science and industry to characterise matter based on the unique way light is absorbed.

Author Alex Belsley, Quantum Engineering PhD student, said: “This work proposes a new method for monitoring gas species in situ and with high precision. Quantum advantage in sensing can be realised today and I’m excited for the transformative impact quantum-enhanced sensors will have on our society in the coming years.”

Read the full University of Bristol press release here: http://bristol.ac.uk/news/2023/april/quantum-sensing-.html

Read the PRL paper here: https://journals.aps.org/prl/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevLett.130.133602