Tjerk Oosterkamp Lab - Microscopy and Quantum Mechanics at milliKelvin temperatures

We explore the possibilities to combine magnetic resonance techniques with atomic force microscopy together in a single microscope: the MRI-AFM, also called Magnetic Resonance Force Microscopy (MRFM).

We belong to the Quantum Matter and Optics group at the Kamerlingh Onnes Laboratorium, part of the Leiden Institute of Physics (LION). We work in close collaboration with the Department of Fine Mechanics (FMD) and the Electronics Department (ELD).

News

Quantum to Classical In Quantum mechanics, particles can be in multiple positions simultaneously. Yet, when a measurement is made, the particle is found only in one place. Technology has come to a point where we may design experiments that will tell us how.

Towards nano-MRI By detecting the tiny forces between a micrometer sized magnet and the spins of hydrogen nuclei, we can do MRI with a volume resolution that is approximately 12 orders of magnitude better than a conventional MRI.

The Lead Zeppelin As an alternative to the diving board shaped force sensor, we are now developing a magnetically levitated small superconducting particle – or ‘Lead Zeppelin'' – as our mechanical resonator. We explore routes towards detection of gravity between small objects.

Vibration isolation To be able to measure small forces, the external vibrations must be very low. We have developed a very soft vibration isolation system. We continue to improve its performance and hope to lower its temperature from 12 mK to 2 mK.

Friction in ice skating We started a Friday afternoon experiment to measure the thickness of the water layer that is held responsible for the lubrication in ice skating.

MRFM in Quantum Matter We explore the possibilities of using Magnetic Resonance Force Microscopy (MRFM) as a tool for experiments involving quantum matter like topological insulators (TI).

Tjerk Oosterkamp

Key Papers

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