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Enhancement of quantum coherence in solid-state qubits via interface engineering

Author

Listed:
  • Wing Ki Lo

    (The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology)

  • Yaowen Zhang

    (The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology)

  • Ho Yin Chow

    (The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology)

  • Jiahao Wu

    (The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology)

  • Man Yin Leung

    (The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology)

  • Kin On Ho

    (The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology)

  • Xuliang Du

    (The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology)

  • Yifan Chen

    (The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology)

  • Yang Shen

    (The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology)

  • Ding Pan

    (The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
    The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology)

  • Sen Yang

    (The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology)

Abstract

Shallow nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond are promising quantum sensors but suffer from noise-induced short coherence times due to bulk and surface impurities. We present interfacial engineering via oxygen termination and graphene patching, extending shallow NV coherence to over 1 ms, approaching the T1 limit. Raman spectroscopy and density-functional theory reveal surface termination-driven graphene charge transfer reduces spin noise by pairing surface electrons, supported by double electron-electron resonance spectroscopy showing fewer unpaired spins. Enhanced sensitivity enables detection of single weakly coupled 13C nuclear spins and external 11B spins from a hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) layer, achieving nanoscale nuclear magnetic resonance. A protective h-BN top layer stabilizes the platform, ensuring robustness against harsh treatments and compatibility with target materials. This integrated approach advances practical quantum sensing by combining extended coherence, improved sensitivity, and device durability.

Suggested Citation

  • Wing Ki Lo & Yaowen Zhang & Ho Yin Chow & Jiahao Wu & Man Yin Leung & Kin On Ho & Xuliang Du & Yifan Chen & Yang Shen & Ding Pan & Sen Yang, 2025. "Enhancement of quantum coherence in solid-state qubits via interface engineering," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-11, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-61026-3
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-61026-3
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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