Multiple quantum coherences from hyperfine transitions in a vanadium(IV) complex

J Am Chem Soc. 2014 Nov 12;136(45):15841-4. doi: 10.1021/ja507846k. Epub 2014 Nov 3.

Abstract

We report a vanadium complex in a nuclear-spin free ligand field that displays two key properties for an ideal candidate qubit system: long coherence times that persist at high temperature, T2 = 1.2 μs at 80 K, and the observation of quantum coherences from multiple transitions. The electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectrum of the complex [V(C8S8)3](2-) displays multiple transitions arising from a manifold of states produced by the hyperfine coupling of the S = ½ electron spin and I = 7/2 nuclear spin. Transient nutation experiments reveal Rabi oscillations for multiple transitions. These observations suggest that each pair of hyperfine levels hosted within [V(C8S8)3](2-) are candidate qubits. The realization of multiple quantum coherences within a transition metal complex illustrates an emerging method of developing scalability and addressability in electron spin qubits. This study presents a rare molecular demonstration of multiple Rabi oscillations originating from separate transitions. These results extend observations of multiple quantum coherences from prior reports in solid-state compounds to the new realm of highly modifiable coordination compounds.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Coordination Complexes / chemistry*
  • Electron Spin Resonance Spectroscopy
  • Models, Molecular
  • Molecular Conformation
  • Quantum Theory*
  • Vanadium / chemistry*

Substances

  • Coordination Complexes
  • Vanadium