Delta g: using quantum technology to visualise underground locations
In 2023, University spin-out Delta g was founded to develop a sensor based on a quantum technology called gravity gradiometry, that can visualise underground locations, measure ground conditions and detect hidden objects.
The company’s foundation was the culmination of a long-term research programme that involved quantum physicists and research engineers, and end users had been involved from the outset, to ensure the product it ultimately brings to market will solve the real-world problems experienced in industry.
By the time the Delta g span out, Birmingham researchers had already delivered the world’s first demonstration of a quantum gravity gradiometer outside of laboratory conditions.
Their achievement, published in Nature, showed the successful detection of a hidden object buried below the ground, and won an international race to show the technology could outside the laboratory.
Delta g was founded by Professor Mike Holynski, Jonathan Winch and Dr Andrew Lamb. They have have now been joined by startup veteran Tony Lowe, CEO to fast-track the commercial availability of ground-breaking quantum technology sensors that will map underground spaces.
Quantum gravity sensors measure subtle changes in the pulling strength of gravitational fields when a cloud of atoms is dropped. The bigger the object and the greater the difference in density of the object from its surroundings, the stronger the measurable difference in pull.
But these instruments are exquisitely sensitive, and vibration, instrument tilt and disruption from magnetic and thermal fields had made turning QT gravity sensors into commercial reality challenging.
The Birmingham quantum sensor was the first to meet these real-world challenges and perform a high spatial resolution survey, operating in environments with background ‘noise’ due to vibration.
A quantum sensor has been successfully tested in trials on a ship
The Birmingham research team is now collaborating with Delta g on ‘in use’ cases, including successful trails on a ship, opening up the potential for mapping the ocean, and delivering robust, more resilient navigation for seafarers.
Delta g is now working to realise value for real-world customers, and to shrink the technology so it can be easily deployed in everyday environments, including infrastructure and repair works.
Find out more about Birmingham's applied quantum research