Low-Field Nuclear Polarization Using Nitrogen Vacancy Centers in Diamonds

Area of Science:

• Quantum sensing
• Diamond quantum technologies
• Spin physics

Background:

• Bulk nuclear polarization is achievable using nitrogen vacancy (NV) centers in diamonds at ambient conditions.
• Existing methods like nuclear orientation via electron spin locking (NOVEL) require high magnetic fields and precise alignment.
• These requirements limit the practical applicability of NV-based nuclear polarization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel sequence for nuclear polarization using NV centers that operates effectively at low magnetic fields.
• To demonstrate the potential of this new sequence to overcome limitations of existing methods.
• To provide a more versatile approach for NV-based nuclear spin polarization and detection.

Main Methods:

• Development of a new sequence termed 'refocused NOVEL'.
• Numerical simulations incorporating spin Hamiltonian and spin decoherence.
• Comparison of the refocused NOVEL sequence with the standard NOVEL sequence under realistic parameters.

Main Results:

• The refocused NOVEL sequence enables nuclear polarization and detection at low magnetic fields.
• Simulations indicate that the refocused NOVEL sequence can outperform the standard NOVEL sequence.
• The new method relaxes the stringent magnetic field alignment requirements.

Conclusions:

• The refocused NOVEL sequence presents a significant advancement for NV-based nuclear polarization.
• This technique enhances the practicality and accessibility of NV center applications.
• The findings pave the way for broader adoption of NV-based quantum technologies.