Project QGrad: Quantum Gradiometers for Geoexploration and Explosive Ordnance Detection for Airborn Use
The purpose of this research project is to develop a highly sensitive magnetic field sensor on a drone. The sensor is based on an optically pumped magnetometer, which will include a compact and robust laser system from TOPTICA with high absolute wavelength accuracy.
Optically pumped magnetometers (OPM) set new standards in the detection of magnetic fields: Their extremely high measurement accuracy is limited only by quantum physical laws. With OPM, magnetic sources inside objects can be measured without contact and through matter. This opens up new possibilities for scientific and industrial measurement technology.
Highly sensitive quantum sensor technology can detect the smallest magnetic fields and thus previously undetectable sources of raw materials, pipelines, contaminated sites, munitions or foundations. In particular, explosive ordnance from the world wars is often difficult to locate in order to be cleared in a controlled and safe manner. This is where the QGrad project comes in: Quantum magnetic field sensors suitable for airborne use, so-called quantum magnetometers, are to be researched and developed, which also have a very high sensitivity when operated in the earth's magnetic field. Quantum magnetometers are usually used in shielded rooms – a limitation that is to be overcome in the QGrad project.
Drone platform for explosive ordnance detection
The goal of the BMBF-funded project QGrad is the development of a magnetometer on a drone. The project relies on optically pumped magnetometers in which the dependence of optical transitions in alkali vapor atoms on external magnetic fields is read out. Gradiometry, in which the signals from several magnetometers are subtracted from each other, is performed to ensure operation in the Earth's magnetic field. Classical measurement inaccuracies are prevented by using a single laser. Two demonstrators are to be developed for use on a drone platform for explosive ordnance detection and for helicopter-based international reservoir search.
The sensor is based on measurement of a gradient magnetic field, which is detected using laser spectroscopy. TOPTICA develops this fully-integrated compact laser system.
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Innovation and perspectives
In Europe, such quantum magnetometers for applications with high sensitivity are not commercially available. The QGrad project will pioneer this in Europe, producing lightweight, compact and energy-efficient magnetometers suitable for ordnance detection and deposit exploration. However, the underlying technology can also be used in other applications, such as materials testing or medical technology.
Learn more on the project page (German).
PROJECT COORDINATION
Prof. Dr. Ilja Gerhardt, Leibniz Universität Hannover University of Hannover, Institute of Solid State Physics
Hebamme bei Hebamme
2yNice project 👍🏻.
Director of Sales Government Business (DACH) at Rivada Space Networks
2yCongratulations Ilja, and much of success within this project.