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Source- This post on Fluorescent Nanodiamonds (FNDs) is based on the article “Scientists spin diamonds at a billion RPM to test the limits of physics” published in The Hindu on 3rd October 2024.
Why in News?
Researchers at Purdue University managed to levitate nanodiamonds in a vacuum and spin them at ultra-high speeds. This experiment opens doors for applications in industry and fundamental research. The physicists succeeded in recording the Berry phase a quantum property related to the rotation of spin qubits inside the nanodiamonds.
About Fluorescent Nanodiamonds (FNDs)
1. FNDs are nanometre-sized diamonds made from carbon nanoparticles.
2. They are created through a process involving high temperature and pressure.
3. They are known for their stability under light and non-toxic properties, FNDs have wide applications in fields like medical diagnostics, microscopy and temperature sensing.
4. In biology, FNDs are used to track cells and monitor them over long periods.
Unique Fluorescent Properties of FNDs:
1. FNDs exhibit fluorescence, emitting light at a lower frequency when exposed to higher frequency light.
2. Unlike many other materials, FNDs do not blink when irradiated over time.
3. Their fluorescence lifespan exceeds 10 nanoseconds, making them superior to other fluorescent materials like quantum dots.
About Quantum Spin and the Berry Phase
1. The spin of particles like electrons and nuclei is a key property in quantum mechanics.
2. Electrons can exist in states described as up and down, and manipulating these spins forms the basis of quantum computing.
3. The Berry phase occurs when the phase of a wave, such as that of an electron, changes after passing through different states.
4. Measuring the Berry phase is crucial for understanding quantum effects and the properties of materials like topological insulators.
Applications in Industry
Potential for Advanced Sensors and Gyroscopes: Levitated FNDs are highly sensitive to acceleration and electric fields making them ideal for use as sensors in critical industries
The Berry phase generated by the rotation of the FNDs could be applied to create a gyroscope for rotation sensing.
UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology
