QSens: An outlook on the 3 joint projects in the Future Cluster

The objective of the “Qsens Future Cluster“ is to transfer the outstanding basic research findings in quantum sensor technology from physics labs into everyday industrial applications, see front page. IMS CHIPS is participating in three joint projects within the framework of QSens. The first three years will see application-driven work on the market introduction of quantum sensor technology in the areas of (bio)medical technology, industrial sensor technology and sensors for research and demonstrate scalable manufacturing possibilities.

The QVOL project is specifically focusing on essential enabling technologies for sensors based on solid-state defects in silicon carbide, which will play a central role in industrial use and the increase of the scalability of this sensor type towards the targeted high-volume production. In addition to microelectronic and photonic integration to miniaturize and increase the energy efficiency of these sensors, the project will focus on sensitivity enhancement issues for three different characteristics of SiC-based quantum sensors.

The microelectronic and photonic integration of NV-center-based sensors pursued in the QSCALE project focuses on one of the central tools to increase the scalability of a sensor technology, because the integration offers immense potential to reduce the size and power consumption of the sensor. In combination with the scalable fabrication of the sensor output material as well as particular investigations regarding the reliability of microhybrid packaging for quantum sensors, the QSCALE project lays the scientific and technical foundations for a future use of NV-center-based sensors in markets with moderate to high volumes and moderate to low unit costs.

Finally, QIND focuses on the further development of sensors for industrial applications in process technology. These are required in industrial manufacturing (e. g. the food or pharmaceutical sectors) for the production of everyday products in large quantities. The challenges here are high accuracy and great robustness of the sensors. New quantum sensors can significantly increase application range and accuracy. NV-based quantum sensors for industrial use in extreme conditions, in particular with regard to pressure and temperature, are being researched and developed using the example of pressure and level sensors. In addition to the sensor concept, the further development of the assembly and connection technology (AVT) as well as a suitable integration strategy play a central role.