Single-molecule NMR Spectroscopy Achieves 2nm Resolution Using Robust Near-Infrared Spin Sensor in 4H-SiC
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Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) at the single-molecule level promises to revolutionise structural biology and surface chemistry, yet achieving this requires exceptionally stable and biocompatible sensing platforms. Yu Chen, Qi Zhang, and Yuanhong Teng, along with colleagues at their institutions, now demonstrate a robust near-infrared spin sensor based on the PL6 defect in silicon carbide. This breakthrough overcomes key limitations of existing techniques by operating at tissue-transparent wavelengths and maintaining remarkable stability even at depths of just two nanometres.
The team achieves nanoscale NMR detection of both proton and fluorine spins, reaching a sensitivity sufficient for detecting individual proton spins within a volume of just a few cubic nanometres, and establishing silicon carbide as a powerful platform for probing fundamental processes like protein folding and molecular interactions. Diamond Defects as Nanoscale NMR Sensors This research details the use of shallow defects within diamond as highly sensitive nanoscale nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) sensors. Scientists characterized these defects, known as PL5 and PL6, demonstrating their exceptional photostability and ability to detect NMR signals from protons in immersion oil.
The team meticulously analyzed sensor performance, focusing on signal sensitivity and long-term operational stability, and determined the depth of the defects, crucial for accurate interpretation of the NMR signals. Results show these sensors are robust and capable of performing high-resolution NMR spectroscopy at the nanoscale, maintaining consistent performance even after prolonged illumination. Nanoscale NMR Detection Using Silicon Carbide Centers Scientists have achieved nanoscale NMR detection using a shallow defect, PL6, within 4H silicon carbide, leveraging its near-infrared emission and exceptional stability. The experimental setup employs a specific pulse sequence to enhance sensitivity to magnetic fields generated by target spins, revealing clear changes in NMR spectra when detecting proton spins in immersion oil. By systematically varying the applied magnetic field, researchers established a direct relationship between resonance frequency and field strength, accurately determining the gyromagnetic ratio for protons and calibrating the sensor depth. The PL6 center’s remarkable photostability was demonstrated, maintaining functionality and optical contrast even after prolonged illumination.
Silicon Carbide Detects Single Atomic Nuclear Spins Scientists have demonstrated nanoscale NMR spectroscopy using defects in silicon carbide (4H-SiC), representing a significant advance in the potential for atomic-resolution imaging and structural analysis. This work establishes 4H-SiC as a promising platform for detecting the magnetic signatures of individual atoms, specifically protons and fluorine nuclei, with exceptional sensitivity and stability. By utilizing shallow PL6 centers within the silicon carbide, the team achieved detection volumes and sensitivities reaching the threshold required for detecting single proton spins, successfully detecting both proton and fluorine spins immersed in liquids. This achievement opens avenues for probing biological molecules and materials at the nanoscale, with potential applications in understanding protein folding, molecular interactions, and the behaviour of water in confined spaces, and the potential for further enhancement through advanced techniques and smaller defects. 👉 More information 🗞 Single-molecule Scale Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy using a Robust Near-Infrared Spin Sensor 🧠 ArXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.10278 Tags: Rohail T. As a quantum scientist exploring the frontiers of physics and technology. My work focuses on uncovering how quantum mechanics, computing, and emerging technologies are transforming our understanding of reality. I share research-driven insights that make complex ideas in quantum science clear, engaging, and relevant to the modern world. Latest Posts by Rohail T.: Quantumness Via Discrete Structures Demonstrates Contextuality in Multiqubit Systems and Assesses Foundational Departures from Classical Computation December 13, 2025 Optimal Learning of Quantum Channels Achieves Accuracy with Uses in Diamond Distance December 13, 2025 Neuromorphic Eye Tracking Achieves Low-Latency Pupil Detection, Enabling 850x Faster Response with 20x Reduced Power December 13, 2025