UK Gravity Delve project explores borehole applications for quantum sensing

Quantum gravity sensors based on atom interferometry are already being developed for use in the oil and gas sector. Indeed, quantum cold-atom sensors designed to operate on the surface are expected to be able to detect and monitor objects beneath the ground better than any current technology. However, little attention has been paid to-date to the benefits that borehole deployable quantum gravity sensors could have.

The Innovate UK funded project, which  brings together academics from the UK Quantum Technology Hub Sensors and Timing, which is led by the University of Birmingham and down-hole technology specialist Nemein Ltd,

Nemein is developing borehole deployed equipment primarily focussed on energy harvesting and environmental sensing. The new technology will enable the quantum sensor developed by the University of Birmingham to venture out of the lab and into the extremely harsh downhole environment.

Technical lead for the project, University of Birmingham, researcher Dr Jamie Vovrosh, said: “This project provides us with the opportunity to investigate using the extraordinary performance of quantum cold-atom sensors in new applications and to potentially open up a pathway towards realising future economic and societal benefits.”