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Updated: Jun 13, 2026
07:42
Optimizing Magnetic Force Microscopy Resolution and Sensitivity to Visualize Nanoscale Magnetic Domains
Published on: July 20, 2022
High sensitivity magnetic imaging using an array of spins in diamond
S Steinert1, F Dolde, P Neumann
13. Physikalisches Institut, Universität Stuttgart, Pfaffenwaldring 57, 70550 Stuttgart, Germany. s.steinert@physik.uni-stuttgart.de
The Review of Scientific Instruments
|May 6, 2010
Summary
We developed a solid-state magnetic field imaging technique using a diamond spin array of nitrogen vacancy (NV) centers. This method achieves high-resolution 2D vector imaging of magnetic fields at room temperature.
Area of Science:
- Quantum sensing
- Solid-state physics
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Nitrogen vacancy (NV) centers in diamond are promising solid-state qubits for quantum sensing.
- Existing magnetic field imaging techniques often lack high spatial resolution or operate at cryogenic temperatures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel solid-state magnetic field imaging technique.
- To demonstrate 2D vector imaging of magnetic fields using a nitrogen vacancy center array.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing a 2D array of shallow nitrogen vacancy (NV) centers in diamond for magnetic sensing.
- Employing optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) read out via a CCD camera.
- Multiplexed readout over a 60 x 60 µm² field of view.
Main Results:
- Experimental demonstration of full 2D vector imaging of magnetic fields.
- Imaging the magnetic field produced by current-carrying microwires.
- Achieving high magnetic sensitivity and vector reconstruction.
Conclusions:
- The presented wide-field NV magnetometer offers unprecedented spatiotemporal resolution and functionality at room temperature.
- This technique enables non-invasive, high-resolution magnetic field mapping in proximity.
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