Advancing European quantum-based pascal infrastructure: Innovation and integration in pressure metrology

Precise and accurate pressure measurements are important in a broad range of sectors including automotive, aerospace, pharmaceuticals, semiconductor manufacturing, energy, and healthcare. As demand in these areas grows for increased automation, miniaturisation, and flexibility, so has the demand for improved reproducibility and accuracy of measurements in the pressure range 1 Pa to 1 MPa. However, metrological gaps have been highlighted in the EURAMET TC-M strategy, and the EU’s Quantum Manifesto. Pressures measurements have traditionally been performed using standards such as pressure balances, liquid manometers, and Force-balance Piston Gauges. However, pressure balances have now reached their technological limit, manometers use toxic mercury and Force-balance Piston Gauges are no longer produced or supported. The revision of the SI in 2019 enables pressure measurements to be realised via quantum-based Fabry-Pérot refractometry systems through analysing the temperature and refractivity of a gas. These systems offer enhanced accuracy, better long-term stability, and more compact instruments. However, these largely remains at the developmental or prototype stage.

Building on Pres2Vac, QuantumPascal, and MQB-Pascal, this project will transform current quantum prototypes into robust, operational systems to allow measurements over a broad range, from  95 kPa to 1 MPa with low measurement uncertainty. The size, complexity and cost of these will be reduced – allowing their wider use beyond NMIs and dedicated laboratories, with performance validated by direct comparison with existing pressure standards.

This will greatly strengthen European infrastructure for traceable quantum-based pressure standards, allowing industry, laboratories and regulators to adopt these advances ensuring consistent, traceable pressure measurements that support innovation, safety, and international trade.