Researchers develop advanced nanodiamonds for bioimaging and quantum sensing

Researchers at Okayama University have developed high-quality nanodiamonds with nitrogen-vacancy centers, enhancing their potential for bioimaging and quantum sensing. These new nanodiamonds show improved spin properties and brightness, making them suitable for advanced applications. The nanodiamonds, measuring about 277 nanometers, have significantly fewer impurities and require less microwave power for effective operation. They demonstrate longer spin relaxation times compared to existing nanodiamonds, indicating stable quantum states. In tests, these nanodiamonds successfully detected temperature changes in cells, showing promise for applications in biological sensing, energy-efficient electronics, and environmental monitoring. The study was published in ACS Nano on December 16, 2024.