Scientists in the UK have made a major breakthrough that could help unlock the full potential of quantum technologies.
Researchers from the Universities of Oxford, Cambridge, and Manchester have figured out how to precisely create tiny quantum features inside diamonds—marking a big step forward in building next-generation devices for ultra-secure communication and powerful computing.
The research, published in Nature Communications, focused on a special kind of imperfection in diamonds called “quantum defects.”
These are tiny flaws in the crystal structure where atoms are missing or replaced, and they can be used to store and send information according to the rules of quantum physics.
In this case, scientists worked with tin atoms to make a rare type of defect called a “tin-vacancy centre.” These are particularly valuable for quantum technology because they offer excellent stability and performance.
Until now, it was extremely difficult to place and activate these defects with the precision needed for useful applications. But the team developed a new two-step process that changes that.
First, they used a high-tech tool known as a focused ion beam—something like a super-precise spray can—to place individual tin atoms exactly where they wanted them inside a synthetic diamond. The level of accuracy was astonishing—within nanometres, or billionths of a meter.
Next, they used ultrafast laser pulses in a process called laser annealing to “activate” the tin atoms and turn them into working quantum defects.
What made this step especially exciting was that the researchers could actually see the defects becoming active in real time by monitoring the light they gave off.
This meant they could adjust the laser while watching the process happen, giving them full control over the creation of the quantum features.
These tiny defects in diamond act as spin-photon interfaces—linking quantum bits of information (qubits) to particles of light. This connection is vital for creating quantum networks, where information can be shared securely over long distances.
The tin-vacancy defects belong to a family of so-called Group-IV colour centres, which are known for their strong and stable properties. Among them, tin-vacancy centres are believed to have the best potential, but have been difficult to produce—until now.
The researchers say this method could make quantum systems much easier to scale up. Since the process works at room temperature and fits with existing manufacturing techniques, it could help bring diamond-based quantum devices into real-world use faster than expected. With better control, stronger performance, and easier integration, diamonds may soon be at the heart of tomorrow’s quantum world.
