Researchers in Austria have developed an innovative approach to electron microscopy that leverages quantum computing to extract more information from each electron, enhancing imaging capabilities while reducing sample damage. Traditional electron microscopes primarily count electrons to create images, often requiring numerous electrons that can harm delicate samples, especially biological materials.
By connecting an electron microscope to a quantum computer, developed by TU Wien and collaborating teams from various Austrian universities, the researchers aim to utilize quantum entanglement. This allows information carried by electrons to be better processed. Each electron passing through the microscope can entangle with ions in the quantum computer, enabling the storage of useful information.
The research team has demonstrated mathematically that their method offers significant advantages, with the next step being experimental validation. If successful, this could lead to a new era in electron microscopy, where researchers can create clearer images with fewer electrons, ultimately preserving sensitive samples more effectively. Major funding is provided by the Austrian Science Fund and the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation.
