>A new prototype “quantum microscope” may one day analyze matter with unprecedented detail, researchers say. The novel device may one day probe the performance of next-generation atomically thin 2D electronics, and run MRI scans on molecules to help gain key insights for medical breakthroughs, a new study finds.

>Quantum microscopy uses quantum sensors to map the magnetic, electrical, thermal, and other features of samples at microscopic scales. In the new study, researchers developed a prototype quantum microscope based on flakes of hexagonal boron nitride. This ceramic often finds use as an insulating material in atomically thin 2D electronics.

>The prototype microscopy system places hexagonal boron nitride flakes 10 to 100 nanometers thick on top of samples. These samples possess defects wherein boron atoms are missing. When these negatively charged vacancies are illuminated with a green laser beam, they fluoresce with near-infrared light. Magnetic, electrical, thermal, and other disturbances can alter this response, allowing these defects to help serve as sensors. Each hexagonal boron nitride flake is essentially an array of sensors.