Photonic and quantum sensors for practical integrated primary thermometry

Temperature is the most ubiquitous measurement in industry as it effects all physical, chemical, and biological processes. The EU’s Quantum Flagship aims to put Europe at the forefront of the ‘second quantum revolution’. However, quantum processes operate at several degrees above absolute zero and ideally sensors should be integrated, small-scale and auto-calibrating to help maintain fragile quantum states. Auto-calibration would also benefit the nuclear industry, where high-temperature sensors cannot be currently calibrated in-situ and must be replaced. In the semi-conductor industry chip processing speeds are deliberately restricted to reduce overheating. This could be addressed by integrating nanoscale thermometry into microprocessors which would increase processing power, allow optimum energy usage and improve efficiency.
In addition, the redefinition of the kelvin in 2019 raised the possibility of delivering practical primary thermometry at the point of use. However, the metrology to support this at the size scales required still needs development.

Building on the work of PhotOQuanT, this project will develop novel, small-scale optical based primary measurements for the dissemination of thermodynamic temperature.
Photon-based approaches will deliver practical primary temperature sensors with nano-scale spatial resolution targeting an ambitious temperature range of 4 K to 500 K. These sensors will be the first ones incorporating zero drift, auto-calibration ability and the capability to be embedded into a chipset or other integrated technologies.
In addition, new fabrication capabilities and calibration facilities will be established for photonic and optomechanical sensors. Not only will the work support Europe’s quantum and semi-conductor aims but also impact areas such as nanotechnology, aerospace and the development of green energy sources.