Quantum sensors developed to revamp cancer cure

A new quantum sensor developed that has the ability to improve quantum communication and promises significant advancements in long-range 3D imaging and monitoring the success of cancer treatments.

Quantum sensors developed  to revamp cancer cure

Researchers from the Eindhoven University of Technology and the University of Waterloo in Canada developed that quantum.

The sensors are the first of their kind and are based on semiconductor nanowires that can detect single particles of light with high timing resolution, speed and efficiency over an unparalleled wavelength range, from ultraviolet to near-infrared.

The semiconductor nanowires were developed by TU/e-researchers, led by Erik Bakkers and Jos Haverkort of the Department of Applied Physics. Bakkers: “We developed quite an efficient nanowire solar cells to convert sunlight into electricity.

Michael Reimer works on quantum optics and took a few cells to Canada and showed they are also very good single-photon detectors. We honestly did not expect that.”

Remote sensing, high-speed imaging from space, acquiring long-range high-resolution 3D images, quantum communication, and singlet oxygen detection for dose monitoring in cancer treatment are all applications that could benefit from the kind of robust single photon detection that this new quantum sensor provides.

Once the prototype is packaged with the right electronics and portable cooling, the sensor is ready for testing beyond the lab. “A broad range of industries and research fields will benefit from a quantum sensor with these capabilities,” said Reimer.

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