CW/pulsed X/Q-Band and THz EPR and ENDOR Spectrometer

• Subject Area: Physical Chemistry
• Term: Funded in 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 551026810

Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy interrogates paramagnetic centres, i.e., species with unpaired electrons. These are ubiquitous in science and technology. In chemistry, such paramagnetic species often catalyse important chemical reactions. In biology, paramagnetic species are key intermediates in biochemical processes, and they have been demonstrated to be crucial in orientation during bird migration. In materials science, such species are often present as defects in materials. In quantum science, paramagnetic units can function as spin-based quantum bits. Finally, in solid state physics, paramagnetic centres furnish the spin degree of freedom in correlated electron systems.This proposal aims to acquire and install a new, state-of-the-art electron paramagnetic resonance spectrometer for use in investigations in the fields of quantum science, catalysis and solid-state physics. For sample characterization, for investigation of reaction kinetics and mechanisms, for investigating the nature of low-lying excitations, and for investigation of the anisotropy of magnetic resonance properties, the instrument must be able to operate in continuous-wave (CW) mode. For the investigation of spin dynamics including quantum coherence, for the implementation of quantum algorithms, and for in-depth studies of the electronic and geometric structure of catalytic centres, the instrument must be able to operate in pulsed mode. For more advanced quantum algorithms (e.g., quantum memories), and for in-depth investigations of the precise nature of catalytic species, the instrument must be able to carry out electron-nuclear double resonance (ENDOR) experiments. To ensure consistency of the description of the systems under study, for access to different frequency ranges (e.g. in the case of large anisotropies), and for suitability to specific experiments (see below, e.g. X-band for ESEEM/HYSCORE, Q-Band for DEER, THz for highly anisotropic systems), the instrument must be able to operate at both X- and Q-bands. For precise quantum control and more sensitive pulsed measurements, the instrument must be equipped with an arbitrary-wave generator. Finally, for sustainability purposes, the instrument must be equipped with a cryogen-free cryostat.

• DFG Programme: Major Research Instrumentation
• Major Instrumentation: CW/gepulste X/Q-Band und THz ESR- und ENDOR-Spektrometer
• Instrumentation Group: 1770 Elektronenspinresonanz-Spektrometer (EPR, ESR)
• Applicant Institution: Universität Stuttgart
• Leader: Professor Dr. Joris van Slageren