Pushing Quantum Macroscopicity with Matter-Wave Interferometry

by Mr. Sebastian Pedalino

University of Vienna

at Quantum optics seminar

Wed, 10 Dec 2025, 16:00
Zoom only

Abstract

Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84359802428?pwd=AxkQIiCqzKqyP2QNgHPhSXW8Swc0fQ.1

Abstract:
Probing how quantum superpositions persist as systems become more complex is central to
understanding the interface between quantum mechanics and the classical world. Matterwave
interferometry offers a direct route to this regime by increasing quantum
macroscopicity via the mass and size of the interfering particles. In Vienna, the multiscale
cluster interference experiment (MUSCLE) now demonstrates interference of sodium
nanoparticles beyond 170,000 amu, using 133 nm depletion gratings in a Talbot–Lau
interferometer together with a metal cluster aggregation source. This upgraded platform is
designed to enable interference of metal nanoparticles in the 10^6 amu mass range, pushing
quantum coherence further into the macroscopic domain. In this seminar, I will show how
our interferometer techniques in Vienna have allowed to advance from fullerenes to metal
nanoparticles, and how their enhanced phase sensitivity enables precision measurements of
magnetic, electric and optical properties of size-selected nanoparticles.

Created on 04-12-2025 by Folman, Ron (folman)
Updaded on 04-12-2025 by Folman, Ron (folman)