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For people, place, prosperity and planet, we deliver impact with measurement science

Case studies

Exploring quantum photodetectors at cryogenic temperatures

NPL helped Quantum Solutions unlock new insights into infrared quantum sensors for next-generation imaging.

Case study

The need

Quantum Solutions develops advanced infrared sensors for high-speed imaging. To improve performance, they needed to understand how quantum transport behaves inside their semiconductor structures at extremely low temperatures. Room-temperature tests were noisy and inconclusive, making it impossible to extract meaningful data. Without this insight, the company risked investing in the wrong materials and processes.

The solution

Through the Measurement for Quantum (M4Q) programme, Quantum Solutions partnered with the National Physical Laboratory (NPL). NPL provided access to specialist cryogenic facilities and expertise to measure optoelectronic properties of quantum photodetectors at very low temperatures. The team conducted customised tests on multiple sample types, comparing results at room temperature and cryogenic conditions to identify which structures offered the most efficient transport. NPL also validated Quantum Solutions’ own measurements and highlighted issues in their setup, helping improve internal processes.

The impact

The collaboration delivered critical insights that Quantum Solutions could not have obtained in-house. Key benefits include:

  • Accelerated R&D: Reduced development time by up to two years compared to in-house testing.
  • Better design decisions: Identified which materials and structures to prioritise for high-speed, high-response cameras.
  • Independent validation: NPL confirmed results and flagged measurement issues, improving reliability.
  • Future funding: Enabled the company to apply for larger grants and secure an upcoming A4I project.
  • Strategic advantage: Positioned the business to explore bold, exploratory ideas in quantum imaging.

What the customer says

Working with NPL helped us explore ideas with their advanced measurement facilities. It accelerated our R&D and gave us confidence in our next steps.

Galih Ramadana Suwito - Quantum Solutions

Find out more

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