Researchers at NIST have developed a new method to improve the performance of neutron interferometers using quantum information processing techniques. The key innovation is using the neutron spin degree of freedom to measure phase differences, which is less sensitive to crystal imperfections compared to the path degree of freedom.
The team demonstrated this approach by rotating neutron spins using thin film permalloy magnets instead of bulky DC coils. These films allow precise spin rotations without introducing heating or temperature gradients that could disrupt measurements. The new method could enable more accurate and reliable neutron interferometry experiments in various scientific applications.
Keywords: quantum entanglement, neutron interferometers, magnetic properties
