How quantum diamonds work: from imaging magnetic fields to detecting viruses

Nature, Published online: 24 March 2021; doi:10.1038/d41586-021-00743-3

Diamonds, one of the hardest materials on Earth, are so strong that they can protect fragile quantum states that would otherwise survive only in a vacuum or at ultra-cold temperatures. Engineers are mastering the art of growing diamonds with special properties and detecting their quantum spins — opening up a range of sensing applications in the life sciences and elsewhere.